California Program Offers Up to $150K in Down Payment Assistance for First-Time Homebuyers

Dream For All aims to help first-generation buyers overcome barriers to homeownership

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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The California Housing Finance Agency's (CalHFA) Dream For All program is reopening applications in February 2026, offering up to $150,000 in down payment assistance for first-generation homebuyers across the state. The program is designed to help those who can afford a mortgage but lack the funds for a down payment, with a focus on supporting Black Californians who face significant barriers to homeownership.

Why it matters

Homeownership remains out of reach for many Californians, especially those from marginalized communities, due to factors like high home prices, limited savings, and historical discrimination. Programs like Dream For All aim to address these inequities and make the dream of homeownership more accessible for first-time buyers.

The details

The Dream For All program provides up to 20% of a home's purchase price or appraised value as down payment assistance, capped at $150,000. Eligibility is focused on first-generation homebuyers who have not owned a home in the past seven years and whose parents do not currently own a home. Foster youth are automatically considered first-generation buyers. Applicants must work with CalHFA-approved lenders and provide standard documentation.

  • Applications for the Dream For All program will open on February 24, 2026 and close on March 16, 2026.
  • CalHFA expects to make $150 million to $200 million available in 2026, potentially helping 1,000 to 1,500 families, with a total of approximately 2,000 households supported through the 2025–26 budget allocation of $300 million.

The players

Tiffany Duvernay-Smith

A coordinator for the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority's Lived Experience Board, a published journalist, artist, and outspoken advocate for unhoused people, people living with disabilities, and domestic violence survivors.

Gavin Newsom

The Governor of California, who has directed that at least 10% of Dream For All funds be allocated to applicants in Qualified Census Tracts—communities that have historically faced discriminatory or unfair barriers to homeownership.

Regina Brown Wilson

The Executive Director of California Black Media, who notes that Black Californians continue to face some of the widest homeownership gaps in the state and that programs like Dream For All are critical to addressing these generational inequities.

Eric Johnson

The information officer in CalHFA's Marketing and Communications Division, who encourages applicants to remain optimistic about buying their first home in California despite high interest rates and prices.

Shonta Clark

A senior loan consultant and CalHFA program educator, home counselor, and broker in Southern California.

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What they’re saying

“I feel like I was the least likely person. I didn't know my story would change from homeless to homeowner. But if there's a house with your name on it, nothing can stop you.”

— Tiffany Duvernay-Smith, Coordinator, Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority's Lived Experience Board

“Black Californians continue to face some of the widest homeownership gaps in the state. Programs like Dream For All are critical because they directly address generational inequities.”

— Regina Brown Wilson, Executive Director, California Black Media

“There are a lot of people in California with steady jobs, good incomes, and strong credit scores – but who haven't been able to save the five or even six figures needed for a down payment on a home. That's exactly what Dream For All is designed to address.”

— Eric Johnson, Information Officer, CalHFA Marketing and Communications Division

“Take the first step. Despite high interest rates and high prices, it is still possible to buy your first home in California. Believe in yourself and know that homeownership is meant for you.”

— Eric Johnson, Information Officer, CalHFA Marketing and Communications Division

What’s next

The Dream For All program will begin accepting applications on February 24, 2026 and the application period will close on March 16, 2026.

The takeaway

The Dream For All program represents a significant effort by the state of California to address longstanding barriers to homeownership, particularly for first-generation and marginalized buyers. By providing up to $150,000 in down payment assistance, the program aims to make the dream of homeownership more attainable for those who have historically faced discrimination and wealth inequities.