Buying or maintaining a home in San Diego County can be expensive, but several local programs may help eligible residents reduce upfront costs, make essential home repairs, and improve energy efficiency. Whether you’re purchasing your first home or maintaining your current property, understanding these programs can help you make more informed financial decisions.
Below is an overview of the assistance programs currently available through San Diego County and its housing partners.
Who May Qualify for San Diego County Housing Assistance?
Common eligibility requirements may include:
- Household income based on the San Diego County Area Median Income (AMI)
- Purchasing or owning a home in an eligible city or unincorporated area of San Diego County
- Using the property as your primary residence
- Meeting program-specific homeownership requirements, such as not owning a home within the previous three years for certain first-time buyer programs
- Completing additional steps, such as homebuyer education or property inspections, when required
Home Repair Loans and Grants for San Diego Homeowners
Owning a home means planning for maintenance and unexpected repairs. San Diego County offers assistance programs designed to help eligible homeowners complete important health and safety improvements.
Available assistance includes:
Home Repair Grant Program
- Eligible for mobile homeowners only
- No repayment required up to $20,000
Home Repair Loan Program
Eligible property owners may qualify for:
- Loans up to $25,000
- 3% simple annual interest
- No monthly loan payments
- Repayment when the property is sold, transferred, after 30 years, or if it is no longer the owner’s primary residence
Eligible properties may include:
- Single family homes
- Condominiums
- Townhomes
- Manufactured or modular homes
- Duplexes
- Triplexes
- Certain mobile homes
Applicants must generally:
- Live in the home for at least 12 months before approval
- Meet income eligibility requirements. The household annual income must be at or below 80% of San Diego County’s Area Median Income.
- Own qualifying property within eligible service areas: Coronado, Del Mar, Imperial Beach, Lemon Grove, Poway, Solana Beach, or in unincorporated San Diego County.
It’s important to note that this program is intended for planned repairs and is not an emergency repair program.
Protecting your investment goes beyond repairs. Our article on to home insurance in San Diego explains additional considerations for maintaining your property here.
Down Payment Assistance for First Time Homebuyers in San Diego
Saving for a down payment is often one of the biggest obstacles to homeownership. San Diego County partners with the San Diego Housing Commission to administer programs that may help eligible buyers reduce upfront costs.
Eligible buyers may qualify for:
- Deferred payment loan of up to 22% of the purchase price for a down payment
- Up to 4% of the purchase price, capped at $10,000 for closing costs
- No loan payments until refinance, sale, payoff of the first mortgage, or the home is no longer owner occupied
Additional requirements include:
- Household income at or below 80% of San Diego Area Median Income
- Minimum buyer contribution of three percent
- No homeownership within the previous three years
- Completion of an approved homebuyer education course
- Financing through a participating lender
The purchase price must also fall within current program limits and the property must pass required inspections before approval.
| Family Size | 30% AMIExtremely Low Income | 50% AMIVery Low Income | 80% AMILow Income |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $36,750 | $61,250 | $97,950 |
| 2 people | $42,000 | $70,000 | $111,950 |
| 3 people | $47,250 | $78,750 | $125,950 |
| 4 people | $52,450 | $87,450 | $139,900 |
| 5 people | $56,650 | $94,450 | $151,100 |
| 6 people | $60,850 | $101,450 | $162,300 |
| 7 people | $65,050 | $108,450 | $173,500 |
| 8 people | $69,250 | $115,450 | $184,700 |
Moderate Income Down Payment Assistance
Moderate income buyers may also have access to assistance programs designed to reduce the upfront cost of purchasing a home.
Eligible buyers may qualify for:
- Deferred payment loan of up to 17% of the purchase price
- Income up to 120% of Area Median Income
- No monthly loan payments while occupying the home as a primary residence
Like the low income program, buyers must:
- Be first time homebuyers
- Complete an approved homebuyer education course
- Obtain financing through a participating lender
- Purchase an eligible property located within participating areas
These programs can significantly reduce the amount of cash needed at closing while helping qualified buyers enter the housing market.
Energy Saving Programs Available to San Diego Residents
Several local and federal programs may help homeowners lower utility costs while improving the efficiency of their homes.
Available resources include:
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
- SDG&E energy efficiency programs
Monthly utility discounts for qualifying households - Rebates on eligible appliances and fixtures
- Water conservation rebates through the San Diego County Water Authority
Potential rebate opportunities may include:
- High efficiency washing machines
- High efficiency toilets
- Irrigation system upgrades
- Other qualifying water saving improvements
These programs may help reduce long term operating costs while making homes more energy efficient.
Important Information for Homeowners and Landlords
If you’re purchasing or selling a property occupied by residents receiving public rental assistance, additional rules may apply.
Some important considerations include:
- Existing leases generally remain in effect after a foreclosure sale.
- Residents typically must receive at least 90 days’ notice before vacating.
- Different rules may apply if the purchaser intends to occupy the home as a primary residence.
- Sellers of homes occupied by Section 8 residents may need to coordinate with the appropriate housing agency before closing.
Understanding these requirements can help buyers and sellers avoid unexpected delays during a transaction.
Homeownership comes with ongoing financial responsibilities, but assistance programs can help make purchasing, maintaining, and improving a home more affordable for eligible San Diego County residents. Whether you’re planning your first purchase or investing in repairs that protect your property, understanding the available resources can help you make informed decisions.
As programs and eligibility requirements can change over time, it’s always a good idea to verify the latest guidelines before applying.
