The 2026 Dream For All Program
California’s path to homeownership just got a major boost. The California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) has announced that the Dream For All Shared Appreciation Loan program will reopen for applications on February 24, 2026. This initiative provides first-generation homebuyers with up to 20% of the purchase price of their home (capped at $150,000) for down payment and closing costs.
Key Dates to Remember
The application window is brief, so preparation is critical:
- February 24: Pre-registration portal opens.
- March 16 (5:00 PM PDT): Application window closes.
- Post-March 16: Applications undergo a random selection process and audit.
Successful applicants will receive a conditional approval voucher, granting them 90 days to shop for a home and secure a purchase contract.
Fairness Through Random Selection
To ensure equitable distribution, CalHFA is utilizing a random selection process for the $150 million to $200 million available this cycle. In line with Governor Newsom’s directive, at least 10% of funding is reserved for applicants purchasing in Qualified Census Tracts (QCTs)—neighborhoods designated by HUD for economic revitalization.
Examples of QCT Neighborhoods by County
| County | Common Areas with Qualified Census Tracts |
| Los Angeles | Parts of Boyle Heights, South Los Angeles, Pacoima, Wilmington, and specific blocks in Long Beach (near the Port). |
| Orange | Portions of Santa Ana (central and east side), Anaheim (near the resort district and older residential pockets), and parts of Westminster. |
| Ventura | Targeted areas in Oxnard (Southwinds and Lemonwood neighborhoods) and sections of Santa Paula. |
Eligibility and Requirements
This program specifically targets “first-generation” buyers, meaning the applicant’s parents do not currently own a home in the U.S. Additionally, household income must fall within county-specific limits. For 2026, the limits for these high-demand Southern California areas are:
- Los Angeles County: $168,000
- Orange County: $211,000
- Ventura County: $211,000
Before applying, you must work with a CalHFA Approved Lender to obtain a specific DFA Pre-Approval letter. Other requirements include a minimum credit score (typically 660) and a government-issued ID.
The Impact of Shared Appreciation
Unlike traditional loans, this “shared appreciation” model requires no monthly payments on the assistance. Instead, when you sell or refinance, you repay the original amount plus a share of the home’s increased value. This structure can save the average buyer roughly $1,200 per month by eliminating mortgage insurance and lowering the primary loan amount, helping to plant the seeds of generational wealth.
Source: https://www.calhfa.ca.gov/dream