First-Time Home Buyer Programs in Santa Cruz County

If you’re a first-time homebuyer in Santa Cruz County, there are several programs designed to help you with down payment assistance, affordable mortgage options, and price-restricted homes. Here are some of the key programs available locally:

CalHome Mortgage Assistance Program (County of Santa Cruz)

Provides down payment loans up to $56,400 for eligible first-time buyers.
Buyers must qualify under income limits (typically up to 80% of area median income).
3% minimum down payment required; loan carries 3% simple interest deferred until sale or refinance.
Homebuyer education is required.
Property must be owner-occupied and inspected.
Contact Housing Staff at (831) 454-2332 or housingprogramsinfo@santacruzcountyca.govfor application details.

Measure O Program (City of Santa Cruz)

Offers affordable housing units with price restrictions for moderate-income buyers.
Encourages inclusionary housing within Santa Cruz city limits.
For more information, contact the City of Santa Cruz Economic Development and Housing Department at (831) 420-5030.

Measure J Program (Santa Cruz County)

Requires new housing projects of 7+ units to designate 15% as affordable to moderate-income households.
Includes homes for sale under price restrictions.
Buyer eligibility often requires living or working in Santa Cruz County for at least 60 days.
Contact Santa Cruz County Planning Department at (831) 454-2332.

Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay Mortgage Assistance Program

Provides up to $100,000 in 0% interest gap financing for down payment assistance.
Intended for low- to moderate-income families.
Loan is deferred payment, balloon due after 30 years.
Helps first-time buyers secure homeownership in Santa Cruz County.

Housing Authority of the County of Santa Cruz

Offers Section 8 Homeownership Program for qualified families, which requires a 3% minimum down payment.
Combines with other local programs for additional assistance.
For eligibility and seminars, contact (831) 454-9455 ext. 326.

Additional State & Regional Programs

California Dream for All Program provides down payment support for buyers who meet CalHFA income limits.
Local lenders often participate in CalHFA’s MyHome or Zip down payment assistance loan programs.
These state programs can be combined with local Santa Cruz programs to maximize benefits.

How Brian Wellikson Can Help

Navigating Santa Cruz’s first-time homebuyer programs, income eligibility rules, and application requirements can be complex. Brian Wellikson, your trusted Santa Cruz Realtor, has deep knowledge of local resources to help you find the best programs, prepare your application, and successfully purchase your first home.

Contact Brian at Brian.Wellikson@CBRealty.com or (831) 227-7561 for personalized support and to explore your homeownership options in Santa Cruz County.

These programs can dramatically reduce your upfront costs and make owning a home in Santa Cruz more affordable for first-time buyers. Taking advantage of them with expert guidance could be your key step to achieving homeownership.