09/06/2026
California: Prop 37 $25B Down Payment Loans
Big news for California homebuyers: there’s a new proposal—Prop 37—that could make down payments feel a little less daunting. This ballot measure puts a $25B bond-backed loan program on the table, allowing residents to finance up to about 17% of their down payment for a new construction home (with qualifying builders). Buyers would still need to bring in roughly 3% of the purchase price themselves, and a primary mortgage would cover the rest—about 80%. What does that look like in real life? For an average Sacramento County home, you’d need to save just around $16,000; in San Francisco, about $42,000. The idea is to help more renters step into homeownership and expand middle-class housing options across California.
No formal opposition made it into the voter guide, though one lawmaker did raise concerns about potential borrower struggles and the measure’s building requirements. As someone who’s walked plenty of buyers (and downsizers!) through what can feel like a maze of rules and numbers, I’m always watching for new resources that could open more doors for Victorville families and first-time buyers. If you’re curious how changes like this might impact your own path to a new home, let’s connect—I’m here to help you make sense of it all, every step of the way.