Top Mortgage Programs and Local Incentives for San Diego Homebuyers in 2026

California Mortgage Programs for San Diego Buyers

San Diego continues to attract homebuyers with its lifestyle, weather, and job market. But high property prices and rising interest rates can make homeownership feel out of reach. Fortunately, 2026 brings a range of mortgage programs and local incentives that can ease the financial burden for both first-time and repeat buyers.

Lending Bee provides expert guidance to help you take advantage of these opportunities. We work closely with borrowers across San Diego County to match them with the best loans, down payment assistance, and grants available. Here’s a look at the most impactful programs that can make buying a home in San Diego more affordable in 2026.

CalHFA First Mortgage Programs

The California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) continues to offer some of the most effective loan programs for California residents. These are not just for first-time buyers—CalHFA also supports repeat buyers in specific cases, especially those recovering from life changes such as divorce or financial hardship.

In 2026, CalHFA loans remain a top choice because they provide 30-year fixed-rate mortgages with competitive interest rates. These loans are available through conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA options. That flexibility makes it easier for San Diego buyers to qualify based on their income, credit score, and long-term financial goals.

Lending Bee works with CalHFA-approved lenders to help our clients find the best match for their situation. We ensure you understand the terms, benefits, and requirements before moving forward.

MyHome Assistance Program

Paired with CalHFA loans, the MyHome Assistance Program provides down payment and closing cost help through a deferred-payment second mortgage. In 2026, this program continues to offer up to 3.5% of the purchase price—often enough to eliminate the need for personal savings or private loans.

Because payments are deferred until you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage, MyHome keeps your monthly obligations manageable. Lending Bee helps you combine MyHome with other local resources to maximize your upfront savings.

Dream For All Shared Appreciation Loan

The Dream For All program is returning in 2026 with new funding and expanded eligibility. This shared appreciation loan helps first-time and first-generation buyers with up to 20% of the home’s purchase price. It’s not a grant—but you don’t pay interest. Instead, you agree to share a percentage of the home’s future appreciation when you sell or refinance.

In San Diego’s high-cost market, Dream For All can drastically reduce the size of your first mortgage, which lowers your monthly payment. Lending Bee helps qualified buyers plan ahead, since this program may be subject to limited enrollment windows or lottery systems.

Federal Mortgage Programs That Work in San Diego

FHA Loans

Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans remain a popular option for San Diego buyers with limited savings or less-than-perfect credit. With a down payment as low as 3.5%, FHA loans open the door to homeownership for many who might otherwise be locked out.

In 2026, FHA loan limits in San Diego remain high enough to accommodate many entry-level and mid-tier home purchases. Lending Bee ensures your loan application meets all HUD requirements, including property condition standards and debt-to-income ratios.

VA Loans for Military and Veterans

San Diego has a large military population, and VA loans continue to provide unmatched benefits for eligible service members, veterans, and surviving spouses. These loans require no down payment, no mortgage insurance, and offer competitive rates.

Lending Bee works with VA-approved lenders to help military families use their benefits wisely. Whether you’re purchasing your first home or moving to a new duty station, we simplify the process and ensure your VA entitlement is used effectively.

USDA Loans

Some parts of San Diego County still qualify as rural under USDA guidelines. If you’re purchasing in areas like Valley Center, Ramona, or other eligible zones, a USDA loan could offer 100% financing with no down payment required.

Lending Bee helps you verify property eligibility and walks you through the USDA loan application process. These loans can be a smart alternative if you’re open to living outside the urban core.

Local San Diego Incentives for Homebuyers

San Diego Housing Commission (SDHC) Assistance

The San Diego Housing Commission continues to support buyers in 2026 through multiple assistance programs. These include deferred loans and grants aimed at first-time and middle-income homebuyers.

For low-income households—typically earning 80% or less of the Area Median Income (AMI)—SDHC offers deferred second loans and up to $10,000 in closing cost assistance. Moderate-income households (earning up to 150% of AMI) can also receive significant down payment support through SDHC’s programs.

Lending Bee works directly with SDHC-approved lenders to make sure your application is complete, accurate, and submitted on time. These programs often have funding limits, so early action is essential.

County of San Diego Down Payment Assistance

Beyond the city, the County of San Diego operates its own down payment assistance initiatives. These programs are available in unincorporated areas and smaller cities like El Cajon, Lemon Grove, and National City. Typically, they offer deferred loans or grants based on income and family size.
Lending Bee helps you determine whether your target property qualifies and whether your household meets the income limits. We make the paperwork easy and transparent, so you can move forward with confidence.

Affordable For-Sale Housing

San Diego’s Affordable For-Sale Housing program offers newly built homes at below-market prices. These homes are developed through public-private partnerships and are subject to income restrictions and resale conditions.
If you qualify, this option can reduce your purchase price significantly—especially when combined with CalHFA or SDHC assistance. Lending Bee tracks new listings and can help you apply when these homes become available.

Why Work With Lending Bee

Lending Bee offers more than mortgage products—we offer a partnership. We specialize in San Diego and understand the local market, the available incentives, and how to match the right loan with the right borrower. Our team provides personal support at every step, from pre-approval to closing.

With access to dozens of lenders and exclusive mortgage solutions, Lending Bee ensures you get the best deal possible, not just the first one that fits. Whether you’re buying your first home in Chula Vista or upgrading to a family home in Poway, Lending Bee provides the expertise and support you need to succeed.
Let us help you unlock the full potential of today’s mortgage programs and local incentives. Contact Lending Bee today to start your path toward homeownership in San Diego.