California First Time Home Buyer Resources to Get You Started
The leap from renting to owning feels big. For California first time home buyers, we make it manageable. Low down payment options, assistance programs, and real human support help you get into your first home with confidence.
Guidance first time buyers rely on
Thousands of families just like yours have found clarity and confidence with the guidance of a leading mortgage lender dedicated to their success.
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Support Designed for California First Time Home Buyers
You are not just looking for a mortgage. As a California first time home buyer, you are looking for answers, confidence, and a guide who knows the way. We built our process around your needs so every step brings you closer to owning your first home.
First Steps for California First Time Home Buyers
California first time home buyers do not need 20% saved. With down payment assistance programs, grants, and first time buyer incentives, you could get the keys sooner than you think. We help you uncover every option available.
Our Rates For You
FHA 30 Year Purchase
FHA 15 Year Purchase
Rates and APR shown are based on a $350,000 loan amount, 850 credit score, primary residence, single family home, 75% loan to value ratio, and owner occupied property. Payment example assumes no other liens on the property and includes principal and interest only. Taxes, insurance, mortgage insurance, and escrow items are not included and will increase the actual payment. Rates, APR, and points are subject to change without notice and may vary based on credit profile, property type, occupancy, loan to value, loan amount, and other qualifying factors. Not all borrowers will qualify.
From Dreaming to Owning for California First Time Home Buyers
Real people. Real challenges. Real mortgage success.
Take the First Step as a California First Time Home Buyer
As a California first time home buyer, knowing what you can afford is the first step toward peace of mind. See your budget clearly so you can shop with confidence instead of guesswork.
No credit impact. No obligation. Just honest numbers to help you decide.
Worried about the down payment?
Let’s be honest, saving up for a home isn’t easy when rent, groceries, and life keep getting more expensive.
But here’s what most buyers don’t know:
You might already qualify for help.
There are down payment assistance programs, grants, and first-time buyer incentives that could open the door sooner than you think, if you know where to look.
We'll help you find every option available to you, because money shouldn't be the reason you give up on the home you've dreamed of.
What if answers changed everything you feared?
Still unsure? Talk to someone who hears you, not a script.
Most California first time home buyers can get a loan with a credit score as low as 580 for FHA loans. Conventional programs may require 620 or higher. Stronger scores may unlock better rates and lower monthly payments.
Not everyone needs 20% down. California first time home buyers can purchase with as little as 3% down through conventional programs or 3.5% with FHA loans. Down payment assistance programs make entry even easier.
Yes. California offers grants, forgivable loans, and tax credits for first time home buyers. These programs help cover part or sometimes all of your down payment and closing costs. We help you find what you are eligible for.
A soft credit check lets California first time home buyers see their buying power without affecting their score. It gives you a real budget you can trust before you start house hunting.
With digital documents and streamlined underwriting, many California first time home buyers close in as little as 14 days. Traditional closings often take 30 to 45 days.
Yes. Student loans do not automatically disqualify you. Lenders consider your debt to income ratio, which balances all monthly debt against income. Many California first time home buyer programs are designed for borrowers managing student debt.
Not always lower, but California first time home buyers may access competitive rates through FHA, USDA, and VA programs. Rates depend on credit, down payment, and income. Assistance programs can lower costs even without the lowest rate.
Still have a question?
No problem. Let’s just talk.
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Advertised offers are not guaranteed if you do not continue to meet Oxford Home Lending's criteria and other factors bearing on your creditworthiness. Rates will vary depending on your loan term, loan type, credit profile & score, down payment, qualifying ratios, and property collateral. Monthly payments do not include property taxes, property insurance, and homeowners' association dues. Since costs can vary based on a loan program, closing costs are not shown in the examples. To qualify for a mortgage, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and meet Oxford Home Lending's underwriting and Investor requirements. Interest rate examples are as of 03/03/2026 and subject to change without notice. All loans are subject to underwriting or investor approval. Other restrictions may apply. This is not an offer of credit or a commitment to lend. Rate subject to change depending on time of lock.
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Lower, LLC | NMLS ID# 1124061 | 5950 Symphony Woods Road Suite 312 Columbia, MD 21044 | Equal Housing Opportunity | https://nmlsconsumeraccess.org/ | Not an offer of credit or commitment to make a loan; all approvals are subject to underwriting guidelines including but not limited to acceptable current credit worthiness, income history, debt ratio, etc. Loan programs & options are subject to change at any time. Rates will vary depending on your loan term, loan type, credit profile, down payment, and qualifying ratios. Rates can change daily. Some restrictions may apply.
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