City of El Cajon

Housing Program

City of El Cajon

Program description
Down payment assistance for eligible low-income first-time homebuyers purchasing a home in the City of El Cajon
Maximum assistance
Down Payment + Closing Costs:
Single house + Townhouse:
Up to 30% not to exceed $170,000
Condominiums:
Up to 30% not to exceed $120,000
Repayment
Yes

Program categories

Organization

Important considerations

No monthly payments are required, but 2% simple interest accrues over time. The loan and accrued interest must be repaid upon sale, transfer, refinance, rental, loss of owner occupancy, default, or after 30 years.

Eligibility & program information

Status
Active
State
California
Coverage Type
City Only
Resources
San Diego Homeownership Assistance Program Official Website,Homebuyer Education Course,First-Generation Homebuyer Eligibility
Eligibility Requirements
Occupy the property as a primary residence; non-occupant co-borrowers are not allowed.,CalHFA borrowers must complete homebuyer education counseling and obtain a certificate of completion through an eligible homebuyer counseling organization.,"Credit score min 650 FICO
Max income:
1 Person: $ 97,950
2 People: $111,950
3 People: $125,950
4 People: $139,900
5 People: $151,100
6 People: $162,300
7 People: $173,500
8 People: $184,700",Assistance is based on verified need and a maximum 45% Debt To Income ratio.,Minimum 2% down payment required from the buyer's own funds.
County
San Diego
Rank Math Internal Links Processed
1
Official Information

Visit the official website(s) for current eligibility, program details, and information on how to apply.

Information last updated August 12, 2026.