First-Time Home Buyer Programs in Madera & Chowchilla, California
Buying your first home is exciting—but it can also feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to saving for a down payment and closing costs. The good news? If you’re looking to buy in Madera, CA or Chowchilla, CA, there are several first-time home buyer programs that can make homeownership more affordable.
Here’s a simple guide to the best options available in our area.
🏡 First-Time Home Buyer Programs in Madera, CA
1. City of Madera First-Time Homebuyer Program
The City of Madera offers a special program to help first-time buyers with down payment and closing costs.
Designed for families earning at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI).
Buyers must contribute at least one month’s income toward the purchase.
The loan and purchase price can’t exceed 95% of the appraised value.
Homes must be owner-occupied and vacant for at least three months if previously rented.
This is a great way to bridge the gap if you have stable income but need help with upfront costs.
2. Self-Help Enterprises – Down Payment Assistance
Self-Help Enterprises partners with the city and county to provide down payment and closing cost assistance for low-income, first-time home buyers. Funds are limited and given on a first-come, first-served basis, so it pays to apply early.
3. GSFA “Assist-to-Own” Program (Madera County Employees)
If you work for Madera County, you may qualify for the Golden State Finance Authority (GSFA) program.
Up to 5.5% in assistance (part loan, part gift).
Can be used with FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional loans.
Minimum credit score of 640 and DTI ratios up to 50% allowed.
Doesn’t require you to be a first-time buyer.
This program is especially helpful for local county employees looking to buy a home in Madera.
🏡 First-Time Home Buyer Programs in Chowchilla, CA
1. City of Chowchilla – HOME Program
Chowchilla uses HOME funding to offer both:
First-Time Homebuyer (FTHB) assistance
Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation (OOR) Program
These programs are designed to support families with affordable financing and help maintain housing quality in the community.
2. Self-Help Enterprises & Chowchilla Partnership
Through this partnership, buyers in Chowchilla can apply for:
Down payment assistance to buy a home
Rehabilitation programs for existing homeowners
This makes it easier not just to buy a home, but also to keep it safe and updated.
3. USDA & CalHFA Loan Options
Chowchilla qualifies as a rural area, meaning buyers can take advantage of USDA loans that allow up to 100% financing (zero down payment).
On top of that, the California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) offers programs that can be layered with USDA or other mortgages:
MyHome Assistance: up to 3% deferred-payment loan for down payment/closing costs.
Dream For All Program: up to 20% shared appreciation loan to help first-time buyers get into a home sooner.