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First-Time Buyers • June 5, 2025
First-Time Homebuyer Programs in California, Texas, and Florida (2026)
Down payment assistance, lower rates, and grants exist in all three states — most first-time buyers have no idea they qualify.
Most first-time homebuyers think the biggest obstacle is the down payment. What they don't know is that in California, Texas, and Florida — the three states where I'm licensed — there are programs designed to help with exactly that.
Here's a breakdown of what's available in each state.
California — CalHFA. The California Housing Finance Agency offers the MyHome Assistance Program, which provides down payment and closing cost assistance as a deferred-payment loan. There's also the CalHFA Zero Interest Program (ZIP) for closing cost help. Income and purchase price limits apply, but they're higher than most people expect — especially in high-cost counties.
Texas — TSAHC. The Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation offers both a grant option (money you don't repay) and a second mortgage option for down payment assistance. Their Home Sweet Texas and Homes for Texas Heroes programs serve both first-time buyers and teachers, veterans, police, firefighters, and other professionals.
Florida — Florida Housing Finance Corporation. Florida offers the Florida First program (below-market interest rates) and the HFA Preferred program (with down payment assistance). The Florida Assist second mortgage provides up to $10,000 in down payment assistance with zero interest.
All three states also allow these programs to be stacked with FHA, conventional, or VA financing — meaning you may be able to combine a low down payment loan with state assistance to reduce your out-of-pocket costs significantly.
The catch? These programs have income limits, purchase price limits, and homebuyer education requirements. They also move fast — assistance funds can run out mid-year. The right time to look into them is before you find the house, not after.
I'm licensed in all three states and work with these programs regularly. If you're a first-time buyer in California, Texas, or Florida and you're not sure whether you qualify, let's find out together. Book a free 30-minute call and I'll walk you through exactly what's available in your area.
Jason L. Esposito | NMLS# 308764 | Hoot Home Loans NMLS# 2532931 | CA-DFPI | TX-SML | FL-OFR | Equal Housing Opportunity. Not a commitment to lend.