Do I have to be a first-time buyer for CalHFA Forgivable Equity Builder Loan?

Yes. The program lists a first-time buyer requirement.

Is there an income limit?

Yes. The listed income limit is 80% AMI.

What credit score does CalHFA Forgivable Equity Builder Loan list?

The listed minimum credit score is 660.

CalHFA Forgivable Equity Builder Loan

CalHFA Forgivable Equity Builder Loan is a forgivable loan from California Housing Finance Agency. Available statewide in California. Up to 10% toward a home purchase. For first-time buyers. Income limit: 80% AMI.

Up to 10%

Listing not recently verified

Available statewide in California.

First-time buyer	Required
Income limit	80% AMI
Minimum credit score	660
Maximum DTI	45%
Homebuyer education	Required
Property types	SFR, condo, PUD, manufactured
Occupancy	Owner-occupied primary
Eligible loan products	FHA, Conventional
Repayment	0% int.; 5-yr; forgivable; due on sale/refinance/transfer/non_occupancy_within_5yr
Forgivable	Forgivable
Stacking	Stacks: calhfa-myhome, calplus-fha, calplus-conventional, calhfa-mcc
Notes	80% AMI cap. Forgiven debt may be reportable to IRS. UNVERIFIED for 2026, confirm before recommending.

Source California Housing Finance Agency·official program page·Verified April 10, 2026

Provider: California Housing Finance Agency · program details at the provider’s site.

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