Steps: check your credit, confirm income within program limits, reduce debt to help DTI, gather down-payment funds (gifts and assistance count), and get pre-approved. Complete education if your program needs it.
Getting ready
Start by reviewing credit and paying down revolving debt to improve DTI. Identify your funds — savings, gift funds, and assistance. Then get a pre-approval that shows your real budget.
Using assistance
Down-payment assistance and CalHFA programs can bridge the gap when savings are tight. We’ll match you to the programs you qualify for and handle the extra paperwork they require.
Frequently asked questions
What if I have little savings?
Gift funds and down-payment assistance can cover much of the upfront cost. Many first-time buyers use them.
How do I start?
A free pre-approval — it shows your budget and which programs fit. We’ll guide you from there.
Does student debt disqualify me?
Not necessarily — it factors into DTI, but many buyers qualify with student loans. We’ll run your numbers.
Save Financial is a California-licensed mortgage brokerage (NMLS #377740, DRE #01875766). Figures are illustrative for 2026 and not an offer of credit.