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KNB Capital · Loan Programs
Down Payment
Assistance
The down payment is the #1 barrier stopping first-time buyers in California. CalHFA, Dream For All, and dozens of DPA programs exist to solve that — and KNB Capital knows how to use all of them.
See If You Qualify Start ApplicationThe Basics
What Is Down Payment Assistance?
Down Payment Assistance (DPA) programs provide funds — through grants, silent second loans, or shared appreciation loans — to help cover your down payment and/or closing costs. Most programs are layered on top of a first mortgage, meaning you still get a competitive rate on your primary loan while the DPA covers what you can't save up fast enough for in California's high-cost market.
KNB Capital is a CalHFA-approved lender with access to multiple DPA programs. We'll match you to the right program for your income, location, and purchase price — and structure the entire deal so your monthly payment is as low as possible.
Available Programs
DPA Programs We Offer
California Dream For All
CalHFA's flagship program provides up to 20% of the purchase price — capped at $150,000 — for first-generation homebuyers. Funds are distributed via a lottery/voucher system. The 2026 registration window opened February 24 and closes March 16. You repay the assistance plus a share of appreciation when you sell. Income limits apply by county.
CalHFA MyHome Assistance
A deferred-payment silent second loan of up to 3% (conventional) or 3.5% (FHA) of the purchase price to cover down payment or closing costs. No payments due until you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage. Must be a first-time homebuyer using a CalHFA first mortgage.
CalPLUS with ZIP
The CalPLUS Conventional or FHA program pairs a slightly higher first mortgage rate with the Zero Interest Program (ZIP) — a deferred-payment loan to cover closing costs at 0% interest. Great for buyers who have a down payment but need help with closing costs.
Other DPA Programs
Beyond CalHFA, KNB Capital has access to county and city-specific programs, GSFA Platinum, and lender-specific DPA options. Many are income-based and stackable. We'll identify every program you're eligible for — not just the most common one.
Common Questions
What You Need To Know
Do I Have To Pay The DPA Money Back?
It depends on the program. Most CalHFA silent second loans (like MyHome) are deferred — no payments until you sell, refinance, or pay off the home. The Dream For All program is a shared appreciation loan, meaning you repay the original assistance plus a percentage of the home's appreciation at sale. We explain the full structure upfront so there are no surprises.
Who Qualifies For Down Payment Assistance?
Most DPA programs require you to be a first-time homebuyer (defined as not having owned a home in the past 3 years), meet income limits for your county, plan to occupy the home as your primary residence, and complete a HUD-approved homebuyer education course. Dream For All also requires at least one borrower to be a first-generation homebuyer.
Does Using DPA Affect My Interest Rate?
It can slightly. CalHFA first mortgage rates are set by the agency and may differ from standard wholesale rates. However, when you factor in the down payment assistance received, the overall cost of the transaction is typically far lower than purchasing without assistance — especially in high-cost California markets.
Is The 2026 Dream For All Program Still Open?
The 2026 Dream For All registration window opened February 24 and closes March 16, 2026. It is a lottery-based voucher program — not first come, first served. CalHFA expects to make $150–200 million available, helping approximately 1,000–1,500 families. If you're interested, contact us immediately to get your pre-approval letter ready before the window closes.
The Down Payment
Doesn't Have To Stop You.
Let's find every program you qualify for. No obligation, no hard pull.