What Down Payment Assistance Programs Are Available to San Diego Home Buyers?

Down Payment Assistance Is Real and Widely Available

San Diego has a robust ecosystem of down payment assistance programs for qualifying buyers — including first-time buyers, public sector workers, and moderate-income households. These programs can provide tens of thousands of dollars that dramatically lower the barrier to homeownership in San Diego.

CalHFA Programs

• MyHome Assistance Program: A deferred-payment junior loan up to 3.5 percent of the purchase price for FHA buyers
• Zero Interest Program (ZIP): A deferred, zero-interest second loan covering part of closing costs
• CalPLUS with ZIP: A first mortgage paired with a zero-interest second covering closing costs
• Income limits and purchase price limits apply — confirm current limits with a CalHFA-approved lender

San Diego Housing Commission (SDHC) Programs

The SDHC administers several programs for San Diego city residents, including a Homebuyer Program offering loans up to 22 percent of the purchase price with deferred repayment. Income, purchase price, and residency requirements apply. Funding is limited — working with an SDHC-approved lender early is essential.

Employer-Assisted Housing Programs

Several San Diego employers — including school districts, universities, hospitals, and the city and county — offer housing assistance programs for employees. These can include grants, below-market loans, or employer contributions toward down payment or closing costs. Check with your HR department if you work for a large institution.

Working With the Right Lender

Down payment assistance programs have specific qualification requirements, approved lender lists, and limits that change regularly. Rieder Homes Group works with lenders who specialize in these programs in San Diego and can connect you with the most current information and assistance available.

Related Reading on RiederHomes.com:

→ Blog #4: Down Payment Requirements

→ Blog #2: Mortgage Pre-Approval

→ Blog #1: How Much Can I Afford?

→ Blog #6: Closing Costs for Buyers

— Mance Rieder, Broker Associate | Rieder Homes Group | REAL Broker | riederhomes.com | 858-295-0556