Down Payment Help, Grants & Perks for First-Time Buyers

💸 Down Payment Help, Grants & Perks for First-Time Buyers Think you need 20% down to buy a home? Not even close. Let’s talk options.

🚫 The 20% Myth

While putting 20% down can help you avoid mortgage insurance, it’s not required to buy a home. Many first-time buyers are getting into homes with as little as 3%–3.5% down—and some with $0 down.

✅ Common Low Down Payment Loan Options

Loan Type	Minimum Down	Highlights
FHA Loan	3.5%	Flexible credit, low down payment
Conventional	3%–5%	Competitive rates for good credit
VA Loan	0%	For eligible military/veterans
USDA Loan	0%	For rural/suburban areas

These loans are available to most first-time buyers who qualify—even with moderate incomes and average credit.

🎁 Down Payment Assistance (DPA) Programs

There are hundreds of city, county, and state programs in California that can help cover your down payment and/or closing costs.

Some common types:

• Grants (you don’t pay it back)

• Deferred Loans (paid later or when you sell/refinance)

• Matched Savings (they match what you save)

• Forgivable Loans (erased after 5–10 years in the home)

💡 Some programs require homebuyer education and income limits—but many buyers qualify without realizing it.

🌟 Extra First-Time Buyer Perks

• Reduced mortgage insurance on some loans

• Tax credits or mortgage credit certificates (MCC)

• Local incentives from city or county governments

• Builder incentives on new construction

🤝 Let’s See What You Qualify For

I can help connect you with trusted lenders who specialize in first-time buyer programs. We’ll explore every option to help make your dream home more affordable—no pressure, just solid info.

—

Andrew Georgitsis DRE#02266192 📧 info@socalrealtyandinvestments.com 📞 866-322-5487 🌐 www.socalrealtyandinvestments.com