09/14/2026
California: Prop 37 $25B Down Payment Loans
There’s been an exciting development in California real estate: a proposed $25B bond-backed loan program (Prop 37) could make homeownership more accessible for many residents. The idea is to help buyers finance up to about 17% of a down payment on a new home, with the buyer contributing at least 3% and a primary mortgage covering the rest. This could significantly lower the upfront cash needed—imagine purchasing an average home in Sacramento County with around $16,000 saved, or about $42,000 for an average San Francisco home. The program focuses on new homes from qualifying builders and is designed to help renters transition into ownership while supporting middle-class housing options across California. While some concerns have been raised about the building mandates and borrower requirements, no formal opposition has appeared in the voters’ guide. As someone who’s spent over two decades guiding clients through the buying process in San Diego County, I’m always watching these changes closely to see how they might benefit our community and expand opportunities for local families.