CalPLUS FHA Program: A California First-Time Buyer’s Advantage

Let’s face it—buying a home in California isn’t easy. Sky-high prices, stiff competition, and hefty down payments make it especially tough for first-time buyers. That’s where the CalPLUS FHA Program comes in. It’s a game-changer backed by the California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA), designed to help everyday people afford homes without breaking the bank.

This blog walks you through what the program is, who qualifies, how it works, and how you can use it to get your keys faster—and with fewer out-of-pocket costs.

Jump to:

• TLDR – Quick Guide
• Detailed Breakdown: What is the CalPLUS FHA Program?
• Eligibility: Do You Qualify?
  • First-Time Buyer Requirement
  • Minimum Credit Score
  • Income and Purchase Price Limits
  • Completion of Homebuyer Education
• Benefits of the CalPLUS FHA Program
• Implementation Tactics: How to Use the CalPLUS FHA Program
  • 1. Get Pre-Qualified with a CalHFA-Approved Lender
  • 2. Complete the Homebuyer Education Course
  • 3. Work With a Realtor Who Knows CalHFA
  • 4. Submit Your Application
• Key Takeaways
• FAQs

TLDR – Quick Guide

• What is it? A CalHFA-backed loan combining FHA financing with down payment and closing cost help.
  
• Who qualifies? First-time buyers in California who meet income and credit guidelines.
  
• Why use it? Reduced upfront costs and access to state-backed assistance.
  
• Bonus: Can be used across major California cities with support from local real estate experts like Invest by Ali.
  

Detailed Breakdown: What is the CalPLUS FHA Program?

The CalPLUS FHA Program is a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), enhanced by CalHFA’s MyHome Assistance Program and ZIP (Zero Interest Program) for closing costs.

Unlike standard FHA loans, this version offers additional support for upfront costs, making it ideal for those with limited savings.

It’s especially helpful in high-cost markets like Los Angeles, San Diego, and the Bay Area, where median home prices can feel out of reach. By reducing the burden of down payments and closing costs, it brings buyers one step closer to homeownership.

Eligibility: Do You Qualify?

You must meet a few key requirements:

First-Time Buyer Requirement

You can’t have owned a home in the last three years. Exceptions apply for certain areas or disaster victims.

Minimum Credit Score

A credit score of at least 640 is typically required, though some lenders may accept lower with additional conditions.

Income and Purchase Price Limits

Limits vary by county, but all applicants must stay within CalHFA’s thresholds. You can explore homes within your range using resources like the city-specific listings here.

Completion of Homebuyer Education

You must complete an 8-hour CalHFA-approved homebuyer education course before closing.

Benefits of the CalPLUS FHA Program

• Reduced Down Payment: CalHFA provides assistance for both your down payment and closing costs through the MyHome and ZIP programs.
  
• Lower Monthly Payments: FHA-backed loans tend to offer better interest rates and terms for qualifying buyers.
  
• Locked-In Stability: Fixed-rate, 30-year terms provide predictable monthly payments.
  
• Broad Use: You can use this program across California markets, especially where local experts like Invest by Ali can guide you through the process.
  

Implementation Tactics: How to Use the CalPLUS FHA Program

1. Get Pre-Qualified with a CalHFA-Approved Lender

Not every lender offers this program, so be sure to choose one from CalHFA’s approved list.

2. Complete the Homebuyer Education Course

This is a mandatory part of qualifying and equips you with vital information about budgeting, borrowing, and buying.

3. Work With a Realtor Who Knows CalHFA

Partner with a realtor who understands how to navigate this program—especially in competitive markets. Professionals at Invest by Ali are experienced in handling CalPLUS transactions across California.

4. Submit Your Application

Once pre-qualified and educated, apply with your lender. You can also layer MyHome and ZIP assistance during this process to maximize benefits.

Key Takeaways

• The CalPLUS FHA Program offers down payment and closing cost help, making it a strong option for first-time buyers.
  
• It requires meeting credit, income, and education criteria—but those hurdles are manageable.
  
• You’ll get more value when working with agents experienced in CalHFA-backed programs, like the team at Invest by Ali.
  
• Eligible homes include many across California’s most desirable cities—explore those markets here.
  
• With the right preparation, you could unlock the front door to your first home faster than you think.
  

FAQs