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The California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) Dream For All Program is designed to help first-generation homebuyers in California achieve homeownership by addressing one of the biggest challenges in today’s housing market — the down payment. This innovative California down payment assistance program offers a Shared Appreciation Loan of up to 20% of the home’s purchase price, which eligible buyers can use toward their down payment or closing costs.
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The Dream For All program is paired with a Conventional First Mortgage with a fixed 30-year interest rate, providing homeowners with stable, predictable monthly payments. By reducing the amount of upfront cash needed to buy a home, the program helps qualified buyers enter the California housing market sooner and with significantly lower out-of-pocket expenses.
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Through the program’s Shared Appreciation Loan structure, repayment is deferred until the home is sold, refinanced, or the mortgage is paid off. If the property increases in value over time, a portion of the appreciation is shared with CalHFA. These funds are then reinvested into the program to support future first-generation homebuyers across California, expanding access to homeownership opportunities.
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For many families searching for first-time homebuyer programs in California, the CalHFA Dream For All program can make the difference between waiting years to save for a down payment and buying a home today—while building equity, financial stability, and long-term wealth through homeownership.
Hi, I’m Marcia Frater Your Trusted Local Mortgage Expert
Licensed Realtor since 1988 • Lending Professional since 2000.
I guide first-generation homebuyers through the Dream For All mortgage process with clarity, honesty, and care—helping make financing simple so you can focus on finding and enjoying your first home. With extensive experience in both real estate and lending, I help clients understand how to maximize CalHFA Dream For All down payment assistance, including the Shared Appreciation Loan and conventional financing options.
My goal is to provide personalized guidance and solutions that make homeownership more accessible while ensuring the program truly fits your long-term goals.
How the CalHFA Dream For All Program Works
Receive Shared Appreciation Down Payment Assistance
It offers eligible first-generation homebuyers a Shared Appreciation Loan of up to 20% of the home price to help cover the down payment or closing costs, reducing upfront cash needed to buy a home.
30-Year Fixed Conventional Mortgage
This assistance is paired with a 30-year fixed-rate conventional first mortgage, giving buyers stable, predictable monthly payments while lowering the initial cost of purchasing a home.
Repayment Is Deferred
The Shared Appreciation Loan is repaid when you sell, refinance, or pay off the home. If the property increases in value, a portion of that appreciation is shared with CalHFA to help future homebuyers.
Start Your Homeownership Journey Today
Take the first step with CalHFA Dream For All. Fill out the form below to see how down payment assistance and a 30-year fixed mortgage can help you buy your first home.