Down Payment Assistance Program Comparison

CalHFA vs LIPA/MIPA

Navigate the complexities of California's down payment assistance programs. Compare CalHFA, LIPA, and MIPA to find the perfect solution for your homebuying journey.

CalHFA

California Housing Finance Agency programs

LIPA

Low Income Purchase Assistance

MIPA

Moderate Income Purchase Assistance

Up to $75K
Down Payment Help
Low Interest
Competitive Rates
Expert Support
Guided Process
Explore Programs
Down Payment Assistance Guide

Bridging the Gap to Homeownership

At Equitable Lending, we know that coming up with a down payment can be one of the biggest hurdles to buying a home—especially for first-time buyers. That's why we work closely with clients to explore the best available assistance programs, including CalHFA, LIPA/MIPA, and other local and state-funded grants that can reduce or eliminate your upfront costs.

CalHFA

State-sponsored programs with flexible credit requirements

LIPA

Local incentive programs for specific communities

MIPA

Municipal assistance for moderate income buyers

Explore Program Details
Professional consultation for home buying assistance programs
Up to $75K
Assistance Available

Our Expert Assessment Includes:

Income & credit profile analysis
Location & profession matching
Purchase price & home type review
Success Stories Down Payment Assistance

Real Success Stories

See how our down payment assistance programs have helped real families achieve their homeownership dreams.

Read more client reviews
Happy homeowner testimonial
"Thanks to CalHFA and Equitable Lending's expertise, we got into our dream home with just 3% down. The process was seamless and their team guided us through every step."

Maria Rodriguez

CalHFA Beneficiary
Happy homeowner testimonial
"As a teacher, the LIPA program was perfect for my situation. Equitable Lending helped me stack multiple assistance programs to cover my entire down payment."

David Thompson

LIPA Program
Happy homeowner testimonial
"The MIPA program in our city was exactly what we needed. Equitable Lending's knowledge of local programs saved us thousands and made homeownership possible."

Jennifer & Mike Chen

MIPA Program
640+ 
Assisted
5/5 Rating
As Seen on Google Reviews
$500M+
Funded
"Equitable Lending made our dream of homeownership a reality. They guided us through every down payment assistance option available and helped us secure the perfect program for our situation."

Sarah & Michael Chen

First-Time Homebuyers
Verified Client Review
Happy family in their new home with down payment assistance
95%
Success Rate

Why Choose Our Assistance Program Guidance?

Expert knowledge of all available programs
Fast processing and approval
Personalized service throughout
Program Comparison

Program Details

Compare the key features, benefits, and requirements of each down payment assistance program to find the perfect match for your homebuying needs.

CalHFA

California Housing Finance Agency

Key Features:

Designed for first-time homebuyers
MyHome Assistance Program (up to 3.5% for down payment/closing costs)
Compatible with FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional loans
Deferred payments until refinance, sale, or payoff
Ideal For:

Buyers with stable income, decent credit, but limited savings

LIPA

Local Incentive Program Assistance

Ideal For:

Buyers seeking local support and layered assistance options

MIPA

Municipal Incentive Program Assistance

Ideal For:

Moderate income buyers in specific municipal areas

Additional Grant & Assistance Programs

In addition to CalHFA and local incentives, we help our clients explore a wide range of state, nonprofit, and private DPA programs, including:

FHA Programs

Down Payment Assistance programs

Freddie Mac

BorrowSmart℠ programs

FHLB Grants

Federal Home Loan Bank grants

Veterans

Specific grants for service members

Which Program is Right for You?

Our mortgage advisors will assess your income & credit profile, location & profession, and purchase price & home type to match you with the best-fitting program(s).

Get Your Assessment
Ready to Get Started? Let's Make Homeownership Possible

Your Dream Home Awaits

Down payment shouldn't stand between you and homeownership. At Equitable Lending, we'll walk you through the options, explain the fine print, and help you take full advantage of the support that's available.

Up to $75K

Available in assistance

Quick Process

Fast application & approval

Expert Guidance

Personalized program matching

Have questions? Our mortgage specialists are here to help.

NMLS Licensed
Fully Regulated Lender
24/7 Support
Always Available
640+ Families
Successfully Assisted