Helping First-Time Home Buyers Navigate Homeownership

With Confidence

I'm Alicia Valencia, your dedicated Realtor with Coldwell Banker Dynasty, and I'm laser-focused on helping you access incredible home buying opportunities across California.

I specialize in First time Home Buyer programs from grants to down payment assistance—there is something for every city! 

We are certified to offer over 200 programs in the state of California. That’s a lot of money saved for buyers!

I have saved my clients hundreds of thousands of dollars on their first home purchase in LA County, Riverside County, San Bernardino, and Orange County. 

The biggest program we have right now is offering up to $250,000 in down payment assistance! These programs absolutely exist! 

What Is Down Payment Assistance?

Down Payment Assistance (DPA) refers to programs that help eligible buyers cover part of their upfront home buying costs, such as:

  • Down payment

  • Closing costs

These programs may come in the form of:

  • Grants

  • Deferred-payment loans

  • Low-interest second loans

Each program has its own guidelines, and availability can vary by city, county, and loan type.

Who Are These Programs Designed For?

Many down payment assistance and grant programs in California are specifically designed to support first-time home buyers—especially those who may feel priced out by rising home costs or unsure where to begin.

These programs are often created to help buyers who:

  • Are purchasing their first home

  • Have stable income but limited savings for upfront costs

  • Are buying in eligible cities or counties

  • Are using approved loan products through participating lenders

While some programs may also be available to repeat buyers, the majority are intended to help first-time buyers take that first step into homeownership.

Eligibility isn’t based on a single factor. It depends on a combination of household income, household size, property location, loan approval, and current program availability. Because every situation is different, personalized guidance helps you focus on realistic options and move forward with confidence.

Common Myths (And the Truth)

Myth #1: Assistance programs aren’t real


✔️ Truth: Many programs are real—but they are structured, regulated, and require eligibility.

Myth #2: You need perfect credit


✔️ Truth: Credit requirements vary by program and lender.

Myth #3: Assistance is “free money” with no rules


✔️ Truth: Programs come with guidelines, timelines, and conditions that must be followed.

Myth #4: All buyers qualify


✔️ Truth: Not all buyers qualify—and that’s okay. The goal is understanding what applies to you.

Why Working With the Right Realtor Matters

Navigating assistance programs requires coordination between:

  • A licensed Realtor

  • Approved lenders

  • Program administrators

I specialize in helping buyers:

  • Understand which programs may apply

  • Avoid misinformation

  • Move forward confidently and responsibly

My approach is simple: education first, pressure never.

Alicia Valencia, Realtor © 2026