First-Time Homebuyer Loans in San Ramon & the Bay Area
Specialized programs for first-time purchasers. Low down payment options, down payment assistance, and dedicated guidance through every step.
Overview
Your first purchase in the East Bay is mostly a question of down payment and confidence. We handle both. As a broker with access to conventional 3%-down programs, FHA, VA and state and local down-payment assistance, we find the combination that gets you into a home with the least cash out of pocket and walk you through every step.
Buying your first home is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll make. Our first-time homebuyer programs offer low down payments, flexible qualifying, and hands-on guidance to make the process smooth and stress-free.
Program Features
- Down payments as low as 3%
- Down payment assistance programs available
- FHA, conventional, and VA options
- Credit scores from 580+
- Homebuyer education support
- Dedicated loan officer guidance throughout
Ideal For
First-time homebuyers, renters ready to own, and buyers needing low down payment or credit flexibility.
Low down payment options
Conventional programs allow as little as 3% down for qualifying first-time buyers, FHA requires 3.5%, and eligible veterans can use VA financing with no down payment. Down-payment assistance programs, including California's CalHFA offerings and local programs, can cover part or all of the down payment or closing costs for buyers who meet income and purchase-price limits. Gift funds from family are allowed on most programs.
What you need to get pre-approved
Two years of employment history (job changes are fine), recent pay stubs, two months of bank statements and a credit check. We review your credit before you apply and tell you if a small change would qualify you for a better program. Pre-approval is fast, and it is the first thing a listing agent asks for.
How we guide first-time buyers
One loan officer from start to finish, plain-English explanations of every document, and a clear budget that includes taxes, insurance and HOA dues, not just the loan payment. We coordinate with your agent and escrow so nothing falls through the cracks in the 21–30 days between accepted offer and keys. Subject to credit approval; programs vary by lender.
First-Time Homebuyer Loan FAQs
Who counts as a first-time homebuyer?
Generally anyone who has not owned a home in the last three years, which includes many people who owned in the past.
What is the minimum down payment?
As low as 3% on conventional programs, 3.5% on FHA and 0% on VA for eligible veterans. Assistance programs can reduce your cash to close further.
Can my parents help with the down payment?
Yes. Gift funds from family are allowed on conventional, FHA and VA loans with a simple gift letter.
What credit score do I need?
It varies by program. FHA is the most flexible on credit; conventional pricing improves as scores rise. We look at your credit first and tell you where you stand.
Is down-payment assistance available in California?
Yes. CalHFA and several local programs offer assistance for buyers under certain income limits. We will tell you which ones you qualify for.
Programs, terms and eligibility vary by lender and are subject to credit approval. This is not a commitment to lend. SiFi Lending is a mortgage broker (Simonich Financial, Inc., NMLS #2563307); we arrange loans, we do not make loans. Equal Housing Opportunity.