CalHFA Introduces New Program for Native American Homebuyers

Members of federally recognized tribes can use financing anywhere in California

SACRAMENTO, CA — CalHFA’s Single Family Lending Division has added another home loan program to its portfolio, helping Native Americans in California become homebuyers through the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Section 184 Indian Home Loan Guarantee Program.

The program provides competitive interest and mortgage insurance rates, and can be paired with CalHFA’s MyHome or School Teacher and Employee down payment programs. Additionally, borrowers may layer various other gift or grant programs including, but not limited to, the Federal Home Loan Bank’s WISH program, or tribal assistance funds.

“We are pleased to be able to offer this opportunity to Native American homebuyers,” said CalHFA Executive Director Tia Boatman Patterson. “Homeownership is a proven way to transfer wealth between generations, and Native Americans—whether on tribal lands or in California as a whole—are underrepresented as homeowners.”

The Indian Home Loan Guarantee Program uses a list of select lenders who are approved by HUD in addition to approved by CalHFA. The program, as with all CalHFA financing, also requires that potential homebuyers undergo an education class and homebuyer counseling before the loan is approved.

“We’re thrilled that CalHFA is now able to extend mortgage loans to the Native American community,” said Rob Wiener, Executive Director of the California Coalition for Rural Housing. “California’s housing programs have long neglected our Native American community. Making it easier for tribal members to buy decent and affordable homes is a concrete way to improve the quality of life and outcomes for Native families.”

CalHFA today also announced the introduction of a USDA-guaranteed home loan program, further extending its reach in rural areas of California.