FHA: flexible credit, 3.5% down. Conventional 3% down: good credit, droppable PMI. CalHFA + assistance: help with down payment/closing costs within income limits. VA: 0% down for eligible veterans.
Matching program to buyer
Tight on cash? Look at CalHFA assistance or FHA. Good credit and want to drop PMI later? Conventional 3%-down. Veteran? VA’s 0% down wins. We compare total cost across all of them.
Choosing
The best first-time program is the one that gets you in affordably and cheaply overall — balancing down payment, rate, mortgage insurance, and any assistance terms. That comparison is what we do for you.
| Factor | FHA / Conv 3% / CalHFA / VA |
|---|---|
| Down payment | 3.5% / 3% / assistance / 0% |
| Credit | Flexible / Higher / Varies / Flexible |
| Assistance | Add-on / Add-on / Built-in / Add-on |
| Best for | Flexible credit / Good credit / Low cash / Veterans |
Frequently asked questions
Which first-time program is best?
The one with the lowest total cost you can qualify for. We compare FHA, conventional, CalHFA, and VA for you.
Can I combine assistance with FHA?
Often yes — assistance can layer onto an FHA or conventional first mortgage. We’ll confirm eligibility.
Is CalHFA only for very low income?
No — it uses county income limits that many moderate-income buyers meet. We’ll check yours.
Save Financial is a California-licensed mortgage brokerage (NMLS #377740, DRE #01875766). Figures are illustrative for 2026 and not an offer of credit.