CalHFA Loans
Your path to affordable homeownership
in California
What Is a CalHFA Loan?
Are you a first-time homebuyer in California looking for help with your down payment or closing costs? CalHFA home loans might be the perfect fit.
The California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) offers affordable fixed-rate mortgage programs designed to make homeownership more accessible. Our team of local Roseville Mortgage lenders can guide Roseville families through the process, helping you take advantage of programs like:
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MyHome Assistance Program – Provides up to 3.5% of your home’s purchase price as a deferred-payment second mortgage to help with your down payment or closing costs.
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ZIP (Zero Interest Program) – Offers a silent second loan at 0% interest to cover closing costs, with no payments due until you sell, refinance, or pay off your CalHFA home loan.
CalHFA home loans come in various types, including FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional options, all designed to help qualified homebuyers achieve homeownership. To qualify, borrowers generally must:
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Be first-time homebuyers (no home ownership in the last three years).
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Meet income and credit score requirements.
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Complete a CalHFA-approved homebuyer education course.
CalHFA updates interest rates daily, giving you the opportunity to secure a competitive loan that fits your budget. The JJ Mack Team is here to help Roseville homebuyers navigate CalHFA programs with confidence.
Why Programs Like CalHFA Matter
According to housing data, affordability challenges have made it increasingly difficult for buyers to enter the market without assistance. Government-backed programs play a critical role in helping buyers bridge the gap.
Many first-time buyers rely on these programs to reduce upfront costs and qualify for a home sooner.
CalHFA Dream For All Shared Appreciation Program
In addition to traditional CalHFA assistance like MyHome and ZIP, CalHFA also offers the Dream For All Shared Appreciation Loan, a powerful option for first-time buyers who may have strong income and payment ability but struggle with a large down payment. The Dream For All program provides shared appreciation down payment assistance that can significantly reduce upfront costs and give Roseville buyers a competitive edge in today’s market.
As an experienced Roseville mortgage lender, the JJ Mack Team helps buyers understand how Dream For All works, verify eligibility, and structure their financing for success. Learn more about how this program works and whether it’s right for your home purchase on our dedicated CalHFA Dream For All loan page.
*Currently funds for the Dream For All program are not available, ask about our other down payment assistance options*
Benefits of the CalHFA Program
Fixed-Rate Stability
All CalHFA first mortgages are fixed-rate loans, giving you predictable monthly payments.
Help for Moderate-Income Buyers
CalHFA isn’t just for very low-income borrowers. Many moderate-income buyers in California qualify for assistance.
No Payments on Assistance Loans
The second loans for down payment or closing costs are deferred until you sell, refinance, or pay off your mortgage.
Lower Out-of-Pocket Costs
Programs like MyHome and ZIP reduce how much cash you need upfront.
Flexible Loan Options
Choose from FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional loans to suit your situation.
We’re here to help.
The JJ Mack Team at American Pacific Mortgage specializes in Roseville Mortgages and helping California homebuyers navigate the CalHFA loan process with confidence. With offices in Roseville, Sacramento, and Loomis, we combine local expertise with personal service to guide first-time buyers every step of the way. We’re committed to fast, smooth closings, ensuring your CalHFA application is complete and stress-free. If you’re considering a CalHFA loan, contact us or fill out the form below to explore how we can help you unlock the door to homeownership in California.
CalHFA Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the income limits for a CalHFA loan?
CalHFA income limits vary by county and are updated periodically. In Placer County — which includes Roseville, Rocklin, and Loomis — the limits are often higher than buyers expect, and many moderate-income households qualify. Because the figures change, the best step is to have a CalHFA-approved lender confirm the current limit for your county and household size.
Q: What credit score do I need for a CalHFA loan?
Most CalHFA programs require a minimum credit score of 660. Some programs, such as CalHFA VA, may allow scores as low as 620. If your score isn’t quite there yet, an experienced lender can often give you a specific plan to reach the threshold before you apply.
Q: What are the requirements to qualify for a CalHFA loan?
To qualify for most CalHFA programs, you generally must be a first-time homebuyer (no homeownership in the past three years), meet the income limits for your county, have a minimum 660 credit score, complete a CalHFA-approved homebuyer education course, and use the home as your primary residence. Every borrower on the loan must occupy the property — non-occupant co-borrowers are not permitted.
Q: What is a CalHFA-approved lender, and why does it matter?
CalHFA does not lend money directly to buyers — it works exclusively through a network of approved lenders. Not every mortgage lender is CalHFA-approved, and experience with the program varies even among those who are. Working with an experienced CalHFA-approved lender like the JJ Mack Team helps ensure your loan is structured to maximize your assistance and closes on time.
Q: How are CalHFA interest rates determined?
CalHFA sets its interest rates and updates them regularly — sometimes daily. Your lender reserves your loan at the rate available when the reservation is made. Because rates move, working with a lender who monitors CalHFA pricing helps you lock in a competitive rate at the right time.
Q: Can I use a CalHFA loan in Roseville, Rocklin, or Loomis?
Yes. CalHFA loans are available throughout California, including Roseville, Rocklin, Loomis, Lincoln, and Sacramento. A local CalHFA-approved lender can help you understand which programs best fit your area and budget.