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DOWN PAYMENT ASSISTANCE

Did you know there are over 20 down payment assistance programs in Los Angeles County? That could be a major jump start to buying your first (or next!) home. And, who wouldn’t want a boost to their down payment savings?

Homeownership programs can help you get into a home much more quickly and give you a valuable cash cushion for those other expenses, like the home inspection and home repairs. You could save on your down payment and closing costs.

BUT, WHO QUALIFIES FOR DOWN PAYMENT ASSISTANCE?

First, it’s important to know that there are actually two components—both you and the home you are buying must meet certain criteria, which vary by program. My Down Payment Assistance program search gives you the opportunity to answer a few simple questions to determine if you (and the home you want to buy) may meet the basic qualifications for a program.

WHAT ARE THE CRITERIA FOR THE BUYER?

Family finances matter. There are household income thresholds, credit score minimums, and cash reserve requirements. Income thresholds are based on the area median income. Income limits are almost always based on household size, so limits for a family of five are significantly higher than for a single person.

Most down payment assistance programs will require some money down from the home buyer, as well as home buyer education, especially for first-time home buyers, to ensure your long-term home ownership success.

First-time home buyer status. Many down payment assistance programs are designed for first-time home buyers. But, keep in mind that first-time home buyers are defined as someone who has not owned a home in three years, so if you’ve been renting for the past four years, you’re a first-time home buyer again!

But, not all programs are reserved for first-timers. A portion of programs in Down Payment Assistance don’t include that requirement.

Your profession may give you an edge. Some down payment assistance programs are designed for individuals providing an important community service, including educators, protectors, health care workers and veterans. Especially helpful in high-cost markets, the programs help workers live in the community they serve.

The home must be your primary residence. Investors need not apply. Most housing agencies will require that the home is occupied as a primary residence in order to qualify. Down Payment Assistance programs are eligible for single-family homes, town homes and condos. Some multifamily properties are allowed if the buyer is also an owner occupant.

Home sales price. The home sales price criteria for down payment assistance programs are typically set based on a percentage of the area median home price. This means the home price limit can go from $484,350 up to well over $700,000 in certain high-cost markets.

Programs available everywhere. Many home buyers mistakenly believe down payment assistance programs are available only in a very narrow area. In fact, programs are available in every community across the country and often for homes at price ranges above the median sales price for a given area.

Different areas qualify for different programs. Down Payment Assistance allows for search by city, county, and neighborhood to help focus your opportunities.

Bottom line: The down payment assistance criteria can vary greatly so investigate the options for your personal situation.

Homeownership may be closer than you think.

Down payment money is out there, let's find it!

Let's work together to determine your options.

How it works: 

  1. Click on the Down Payment Connect link. Click to find home buyer programs in your area.
  2. Enter your household information. Personalize your search to find all programs available based on your household characteristics.
  3. Get your results. Learn the number of programs and amount of help that may be available to you. Request the full report to get all the details.

Contact me today to discover your options!

*Credit restoration referrals available upon request.

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