Making Homeownership Easier: CALHFA's Shared Appreciation Loan
- Mar 27, 2024
- 3 min read
Are you dreaming of owning your first home but find it tough to save up for the down payment? Maybe you're a homeowner looking for help with your next purchase. California Housing Finance Agency (CALHFA) might have just the thing for you with its Shared Appreciation Loan program. Let's break down this cool opportunity that helps Californians own homes more easily.
What's CALHFA's Shared Appreciation Loan?
CALHFA's Shared Appreciation Loan program helps folks who want to buy a home but need some extra help with the down payment. Here's how it works:

Getting Started: When you buy a home using CALHFA's first mortgage, they can give you up to 20% of the home's price or $150,000 (whichever is less) to help with your down payment or closing costs. This means you don't need as much money upfront to buy your home.
Sharing the Good Stuff: Now, here's the interesting part. Instead of paying back the loan like a regular loan, CALHFA shares in the future growth of your home's value. So when you sell the home later on, you'll pay back the original loan amount plus a bit of the home's increased value.
Helping Others: The money you pay back goes back into the program. This helps future homebuyers get assistance with their down payments too. It's like passing on the help to the next person!
Why Choose CALHFA's Shared Appreciation Loan?
Less Money Upfront: With this program, you don't need to have as much cash saved up to buy your home. CALHFA gives you a hand with the down payment, making it easier to become a homeowner.
Sharing the Risk: Since CALHFA shares in how much your home grows in value, they want it to do well, just like you do. It's like having a partner in your journey to owning a home.
Helping Others Too: By paying back the loan, you're helping future homebuyers. It's a cycle of support that keeps on giving!
Is CALHFA's Shared Appreciation Loan Right for You?
If you're thinking of buying a home in California and need help with the down payment, CALHFA's Shared Appreciation Loan could be a good fit. Here are some things to think about:
Your Plans: If you plan to sell your home soon, this might not be the best fit since the repayment is based on your home's value going up.
Your Finances: Make sure you're ready for all the costs that come with owning a home, like mortgage payments and upkeep.
Other CALHFA Options: CALHFA has more programs to help homebuyers. Check them out to see which one fits your needs best.
Requirements for CALHFA's Shared Appreciation Loan:
To qualify for CALHFA's Shared Appreciation Loan program, here are the key requirements you need to meet:
First-Time Homebuyer: You must be buying your first home to be eligible for this program.
Good Credit Score: A FICO score of 680 or higher is required. This shows that you have a history of managing credit responsibly.
Meet CalHFA Income Limits: Your income should fall within the limits set by CALHFA for the program. This helps ensure the assistance goes to those who need it most.
Primary Residence: The home you're buying must be your primary residence, where you plan to live.
Homebuyer Education: Completing a homebuyer education course or counseling is part of the program. This helps you understand the ins and outs of homeownership.
Property Location: The property you're buying can be located anywhere in the state of California.
Approved Property Types: CALHFA's Shared Appreciation Loan covers single-family homes, some manufactured homes, and certain condominiums.
Wrap Up
CALHFA's Shared Appreciation Loan is a neat way to make buying a home easier for Californians. By sharing in your home's growth, CALHFA makes it possible for more people to own homes in the state.
If you're ready to start your journey to homeownership with a little extra help, check out CALHFA's Shared Appreciation Loan. It could be the key to unlocking the door to your dream home!
For more info on CALHFA's programs and how to apply, visit their website or talk to a certified lender. Let CALHFA help you make your homeownership dreams come true!
Long Lam
DRE #02215680
Cell: 818-272-3221
Instargram: @LongL.realtor
Keller Williams Porter Ranch
19300 Rinaldi St, Suite L
Porter Ranch, CA 91326
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