First-Time Homebuyer & Down Payment Assistance Loans

Buying your first home is a big step—and Kristy Gannon is here to make it easier. With over 20 years of experience, Kristy helps first-time buyers across California access low down payment options, grants, and flexible loan programs designed to open the door to homeownership. At Ownity Mortgage, you’ll get the expert guidance and personal support you need to feel confident every step of the way.

Helping First-Time Buyers Turn Dreams Into Keys

What Are First-Time Homebuyer / DPA Loans?

First-Time Homebuyer and Down Payment Assistance (DPA) Loans are designed to make homeownership more affordable for new buyers by helping cover down payments and closing costs. These programs often come as grants, second mortgages, or forgivable loans, and are ideal for those who qualify but need a little extra help getting started. With over 20 years of experience, Kristy Gannon at Ownity Mortgage helps first-time buyers across California find the right program and confidently take that first step toward owning a home.

Who Can Benefit from a First-Time Homebuyer / DPA Loan?

First-Time Homebuyer and DPA Loans are ideal for individuals and families who are ready to buy their first home but need help overcoming upfront financial barriers. These programs benefit buyers with limited savings, moderate incomes, or non-traditional financial backgrounds. Whether you’re renting, rebuilding credit, or just unsure where to start, Kristy Gannon at Ownity Mortgage works one-on-one with clients across California to match them with the right assistance programs and make homeownership a reality—so no family is left behind.

How Do First-Time Homebuyer / DPA Loans Work?

First-Time Homebuyer Loans paired with Down Payment Assistance (DPA) programs are designed to reduce the upfront costs of purchasing a home. These programs may provide grants, low-interest second mortgages, or forgivable loans that cover part—or all—of your down payment and closing costs. As a trusted Mortgage Advisor with over 20 years of experience, Kristy Gannon at Ownity Mortgage helps buyers across California navigate these programs with ease, ensuring you understand your options and receive the support you need to get into your first home.

Types of Loans That Qualify for DPA Assistance

Down Payment Assistance (DPA) programs can be paired with several popular loan types, making them a flexible solution for first-time buyers. Most commonly, DPA is available with FHA Loans, Conventional Loans, VA Loans, and even some USDA Loans, depending on the program guidelines. At Ownity Mortgage, Kristy Gannon helps buyers across California find the right loan and match it with available assistance—making sure your financing is both affordable and aligned with your goals.

What Are the Benefits of a First-Time Homebuyer / DPA Loan?

First-Time Homebuyer and DPA Loans offer several powerful benefits that make stepping into homeownership more achievable. With options for reduced or zero down payments, help with closing costs, and access to grants or forgivable loans, these programs ease the financial pressure of buying your first home. Working with Kristy Gannon at Ownity Mortgage, you’ll gain personalized guidance to take full advantage of these benefits—turning what once felt out of reach into a confident and affordable move forward.

Is a First-Time Homebuyer / DPA Loan Right for You?

If you’re dreaming of owning your first home but worried about saving for a down payment or covering closing costs, a First-Time Homebuyer / DPA Loan could be the perfect fit. These programs are built for people just like you—those with steady income, a desire to build equity, and the need for a little extra help getting started. Kristy Gannon at Ownity Mortgage will walk you through your options, help you understand if you qualify, and make sure you feel confident every step of the way. Your path to homeownership in California might be closer than you think.

Why Choose Kristy Gannon for First-Time Homebuyer / DPA Loans?

Buying your first home is a big milestone—so having the right mortgage advisor by your side makes all the difference. With over 20 years of experience, Kristy Gannon at Ownity Mortgage is known for her ability to turn complex financing into clear, step-by-step guidance. She understands the challenges first-time buyers face and is deeply committed to making homeownership in California accessible to everyone.

Kristy takes the time to understand your unique goals, match you with the right loan programs and down payment assistance, and stay by your side from application to closing. Her “no family left behind” approach means you’ll never feel lost in the process—only supported, informed, and empowered.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

From first-time homebuyers to seasoned investors, we offer a wide range of Home Loan and Mortgage solutions designed to meet your unique needs. Discover competitive rates, flexible terms, and expert support to help you achieve your homeownership goals.

Understanding First-Time Homebuyer / DPA Loans

A First-Time Homebuyer / DPA Loan is a mortgage assistance program designed to help buyers afford a home by covering down payment and closing costs. These programs are often offered by state and local governments, housing agencies, and nonprofit organizations to support first-time buyers in becoming homeowners.

DPA programs provide financial assistance in different forms. Grants do not need to be repaid, making them an attractive option for buyers who qualify. Forgivable loans are structured so that repayment is waived if the buyer stays in the home for a specified period. Low-interest second mortgages provide additional financing to cover upfront costs, with repayment terms that are usually more flexible than traditional loans.

A First-Time Homebuyer Loan is designed for individuals or families purchasing their first home, often featuring low down payments, flexible credit requirements, and access to government-backed loan programs. Kristy Gannon works with buyers across California to help them find the best fit for their financial situation and goals.

Down Payment Assistance (DPA) programs help cover the upfront costs of buying a home, including the down payment and sometimes closing costs. This support can come in the form of grants, second mortgages, or forgivable loans, making homeownership more accessible for eligible buyers.

Not always. Many programs define a “first-time buyer” as someone who hasn’t owned a home in the last three years. Kristy Gannon will review your history and eligibility to see which DPA options you may still qualify for—even if you’ve owned a home before.

Most DPA programs can be used with FHA, Conventional, VA, and USDA loans. Kristy will guide you through choosing the right loan program and matching it with a compatible DPA solution.

Qualification depends on factors like your income, credit score, location, and whether you’re a first-time buyer. Some programs are based on local or state guidelines. Kristy will assess your profile and help you apply for the assistance programs you’re most likely to qualify for.

Some DPA funds are offered as forgivable loans or grants, meaning you don’t have to repay them if you meet certain conditions, like staying in the home for a set number of years. Kristy will explain the terms of each option so you can make a fully informed decision.

 

Yes! Many DPA programs allow you to apply the funds toward both your down payment and closing costs, helping reduce the total amount you need to bring to the table.

 

Getting started is easy. Simply reach out to Kristy Gannon for a personalized consultation. She’ll help you understand your options, review your eligibility, and guide you through the application process—from pre-approval to closing.

 

Many first-time buyers qualify for DPA programs, even if they have owned a home before. If you haven’t owned a home in the past three years, you may still be eligible for first-time buyer assistance. Certain programs also cater to specific groups, including public service workers, healthcare professionals, and military personnel.

Most DPA programs have income limits based on household size and location. These limits ensure that assistance reaches buyers who need it most. However, income guidelines vary by program, and some allow higher-income households to qualify if they meet other criteria.

Down payment assistance can also help with closing costs, which can add up quickly. Many programs offer aid that covers both expenses, reducing the amount of cash needed upfront to secure a mortgage.

The amount of down payment assistance you can receive depends on the program and your location. Some programs offer fixed amounts, such as $5,000 or $10,000, while others cover a percentage of the home’s purchase price. In some cases, assistance may be large enough to eliminate the need for a down payment entirely.

DPA funds may be structured as a grant, forgivable loan, or low-interest second mortgage. Grants do not require repayment, while forgivable loans are waived after the buyer meets residency requirements. Some programs provide deferred-payment loans that don’t require repayment until the home is sold or refinanced.

First-time buyers can combine DPA funds with FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional loans to maximize affordability. Many programs are designed to work alongside these loan options, reducing upfront costs and making homeownership more accessible.

Applying for a DPA loan involves working with an approved lender or housing agency that offers assistance programs. Buyers must meet eligibility requirements, complete a homebuyer education course, and provide necessary documentation to verify income, employment, and creditworthiness.

Credit score requirements vary by program. Many DPA programs accept credit scores as low as 580, while others require a minimum score of 620. In some cases, buyers with lower credit scores may still qualify if they demonstrate financial stability and the ability to repay the loan.

Certain DPA loans include forgivable terms, meaning the funds provided do not need to be repaid if the buyer meets specific conditions. If the home is sold before the required residency period ends, the buyer may be responsible for repaying part or all of the assistance received.

A First-Time Homebuyer Loan is a mortgage program designed to help individuals who have never owned a home or have not owned one in the past three years. These loans often come with lower down payment requirements, reduced interest rates, and special assistance programs to make homeownership more accessible. Many programs offer Down Payment Assistance (DPA) to help cover upfront costs.

Down Payment Assistance (DPA) programs provide grants, low-interest loans, or forgivable loans to help homebuyers cover their down payment and sometimes closing costs. Qualification depends on factors such as income level, location, and being a first-time homebuyer. Many DPA programs are available through state, local, and nonprofit organizations.

Some DPA programs are restricted to specific geographic areas, such as urban renewal zones or rural communities. Buyers should check with local housing agencies to determine eligibility for location-based assistance.

Not all mortgage lenders offer DPA programs, so it’s important to work with a lender who partners with housing agencies and government-backed assistance programs.

Buyers who do not qualify for a DPA program may still be able to secure financing through low down payment loan options. FHA, VA, and USDA loans offer alternative pathways to homeownership with reduced upfront costs.

First-time homebuyers can access several loan options, including FHA loans, VA loans for eligible military members, USDA loans for rural homebuyers, and conventional loans with low down payment requirements. Many of these programs offer flexible credit score requirements and competitive interest rates.

The required down payment depends on the loan program. FHA loans require as little as 3.5% down, while conventional loans may require 3% for first-time buyers. VA and USDA loans offer 100% financing, meaning no down payment is required for eligible borrowers. DPA programs can help cover some or all of the required down payment.

Yes! Many first-time homebuyer loan programs allow for lower credit scores. FHA loans accept borrowers with credit scores as low as 580, while some conventional loan programs allow scores as low as 620. DPA programs may have additional credit score requirements, but alternative credit verification methods may be available.

Some first-time homebuyer and DPA programs have income limits, particularly those designed for low- to moderate-income buyers. The limits vary by location and program. Borrowers should check with local housing authorities or lenders to see if they qualify.

First-time homebuyer loans often come with benefits such as lower down payment requirements, reduced interest rates, lower mortgage insurance costs, and access to DPA programs. Some programs also offer tax credits and assistance with closing costs to make buying a home more affordable.

Yes! Many DPA programs allow funds to be used for both down payments and closing costs. Some programs provide grants or forgivable loans that help cover additional expenses, reducing out-of-pocket costs for first-time buyers.

No. First-time homebuyer loans can often be used to purchase condos, townhouses, and even multi-unit properties (up to four units) as long as the borrower occupies one of the units as their primary residence. Some loan programs have specific property eligibility requirements.

To apply, homebuyers should first check their eligibility for loan programs and DPA options. Working with a mortgage lender or local housing agency can help identify available programs and guide buyers through the application process, which typically includes providing proof of income, credit history, and homebuyer education completion (if required).

Yes! Many buyers can combine first-time homebuyer loans with DPA programs, grants, or tax credit programs to maximize affordability. Some programs also allow buyers to stack multiple assistance options to cover more of their upfront costs.

Some DPA and loan programs extend benefits to repeat homebuyers who meet certain income and location requirements. Other programs allow buyers who have not owned a home in the past three years to qualify as first-time homebuyers again. Checking eligibility with a mortgage lender or housing agency is the best way to determine qualification.

If you don’t qualify for a first-time homebuyer loan, other loan programs may be available, including conventional loans with low down payment options, FHA loans with flexible credit requirements, or alternative home financing programs. A mortgage specialist can help explore options that best fit your financial situation.