First-Time Homebuyer Assistance Program

The City of Long Beach, First-Time Homebuyer Assistance Program, provides grants of up to $20,000 for the down payment and closing cost assistance for eligible first-time homebuyers. They anticipate awarding grants to approximately 100 households.

Grant recipients can use the grant funds toward the following costs:

- Down Payment

- Non-recurring closing costs, such as loan, title, and escrow fees

- Loan points or fees for buying down mortgage interest rates.

PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY

Complete a pre-application self-screening form to see if you can apply for the Program. To qualify for the Program, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Be a U.S. citizen or have the right to reside in the U.S. permanently.

• In addition, household income must not exceed 150% of the Los Angeles County Area Median Income (AMI).
  

• Be a first-time homebuyer, defined as someone who has not owned a home in the past three years.

• Be a first-generation homebuyer, defined as someone whose parents or guardian never owned a home during the homebuyer’s lifetime or who lost the home to a foreclosure or short sale and does not own a home now. Anyone who lives in foster care also qualifies as a first-generation homebuyer. (ONLY ONE BUYER NEEDS TO MEET THIS QUALIFICATION)

• Currently, live in a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) qualified area in Long Beach (see below).

• Be pre-approved by a lender for a 30-year fixed mortgage loan. Cash purchases are not eligible.

These grants are FIRST COME FIRST SERVE. There is a set amount of funds set aside for these grants. They estimate about 100 grants will be awarded. Due to the high level of interest, eligible residents are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Please contact me (information below) to help further assist in your homebuying journey!