Step-by-step guide

How to Get A CalHFA Loan

Getting a calhfa loan is simpler than most people expect when you have the right team. Here’s the exact process CDL Mortgage walks every borrower through, from the first conversation to funding day.

CalHFA down payment assistance programs for first-time buyers in California. MyHome Assistance, CalPLUS, and ZIP programs can cover your down payment and closing costs — CDL Mortgage is an experienced CalHFA-approved lender partner.

The Process

How to Get A CalHFA Loan

  1. 1

    Check your credit and budget

    Review your credit report and settle on a comfortable monthly payment before you apply. California down payment assistance for first-time buyers. We’ll tell you exactly where you stand — and how to improve your pricing — in a free 15-minute call.

  2. 2

    Gather your documents

    Typical items include photo ID, recent pay stubs or income documentation, bank statements, and two years of tax returns where applicable. Your loan officer sends a short checklist tailored to your calhfa loan.

  3. 3

    Get pre-approved

    We verify your income, credit, and assets up front so your pre-approval actually holds up in underwriting. A solid pre-approval is the single biggest factor in a smooth, on-time closing.

  4. 4

    Shop your rate

    As an independent broker, CDL Mortgage shops multiple wholesale lenders on every calhfa loan — you see the best pricing across the market, not one bank’s rate sheet.

  5. 5

    Complete underwriting

    We submit your full file, order the appraisal when required, and clear any underwriter conditions for you. You’ll always know exactly where your loan stands.

  6. 6

    Close and fund

    Sign your final documents with a notary or at the title company, and your loan funds. Most files close in 21–30 days — often faster.

Questions

CalHFA Loans FAQs

What is a CalHFA loan?

CalHFA (California Housing Finance Agency) programs pair a first mortgage with down payment and closing cost assistance for low-to-moderate income first-time buyers in California. The MyHome Assistance Program provides a deferred-payment junior loan of up to 3.5% of the purchase price or appraised value.

Who qualifies for CalHFA assistance?

You generally must be a first-time homebuyer (no ownership in the last 3 years), occupy the home as your primary residence, meet county income limits, and complete a homebuyer education course. We’ll check your county’s income limit and walk you through every requirement.

Do I have to repay the down payment assistance?

The MyHome junior loan is deferred — no monthly payments are required. It’s repaid when you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage. This lets you get into a home now without draining your savings.

Can CalHFA be combined with FHA or conventional loans?

Yes. CalHFA assistance layers on top of an FHA or conventional first mortgage. We’ll compare the CalHFA FHA and CalHFA conventional options side by side to find your lowest total monthly payment.

Is CalHFA available outside California?

No — CalHFA is a California-only program. If you’re buying in another state we serve, ask us about that state’s bond and down payment assistance programs, along with FHA and VA low-down-payment options.

About Us

Who is CDL Mortgage?

CDL Mortgage Services Inc. is an independent, full-service mortgage company. Instead of pushing one bank’s products, we shop multiple wholesale lenders to secure the best loan at the best rate for every borrower.

Full-Service Mortgage Company

Purchase, refinance, and home equity — all under one roof, focused on the best loans at the best rates.

Headquartered in Rocklin, CA

Based at 6524 Lonetree Blvd, Rocklin, CA 95765 and licensed in California, Texas, Georgia, Tennessee, Oklahoma & Idaho.

Real Loan Officers, Not Call Centers

Every file is handled start-to-finish by a licensed loan officer who knows your name and your goals.

NMLS #132263 · Equal Housing Lender

Fully licensed and regulated, with award-winning lender partnerships and 35+ years serving borrowers.