Monday, March 10, 2025 / by Bob Cowan
Buying a home in California can be challenging due to rising property prices. However, low down payment mortgage programs can help make homeownership more accessible. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, here are some of the best low down payment mortgage programs available in California in 2025.
FHA Loans
The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loan program remains one of the most popular options for low down payment mortgages.
Down Payment Requirement: 3.5%
Credit Score Requirement: 580 or higher (500-579 may qualify with a 10% down payment)
Benefits: Flexible credit guidelines, allows higher debt-to-income ratios
Best For: First-time homebuyers and those with less-than-perfect credit
CalHFA (California Housing Finance Agency) Programs
CalHFA offers several assistance programs to help Californians afford a home.
MyHome Assistance Program: Provides a deferred-payment junior loan of up to 3.5% of the purchase price to cover the down payment.
C ...
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Thursday, March 6, 2025 / by Bob Cowan
Building Wealth Through Homeownership
In California, owning a home is more than just securing a place to live—it’s a key step toward long-term financial growth. Despite increasing property values, the financial advantages of owning a home still surpass renting. Recent data shows that homeowners who bought in 2006 have gained an average of $169,000 in equity, highlighting real estate as a reliable path to financial stability.
The True Cost of Renting
While homeowners in California have seen their equity increase, renters have experienced substantial financial setbacks. Over the same period, renters lost an average of $229,000 in potential wealth. Unlike mortgage payments that build equity, rent payments provide no long-term financial benefit—each payment is an expense with no return on investment.
The Importance of Homeownership in California
Owning a home in California offers distinct advantages for building wealth:
Equity Growth: Increasing prope ...
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Monday, February 24, 2025 / by Bob Cowan
Orange County, California, hosts a variety of well-known colleges and universities, offering distinct real estate investment opportunities, especially in student housing and multifamily properties. The ongoing need for student accommodations near these campuses makes the nearby areas appealing to investors looking for reliable returns.
Notable Colleges and Universities in Orange County:
University of California, Irvine (UCI)
Location: Irvine, CA
Student Population: Approximately 36,000
Summary: UCI is a prestigious research institution recognized for its rigorous academic programs and dynamic campus culture.
California State University, Fullerton (CSUF)
Location: Fullerton, CA
Student Population: Around 40,000
Summary: CSUF provides a broad selection of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its diverse and inclusive student community.
Chapman University
Location: Orange, CA
Student Population: Approximately 9,000
Summary: This private university ...
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Monday, February 17, 2025 / by Bob Cowan
Leasing an apartment or home is a practical option for those beginning their financial journey, especially if they have limited savings or a credit score that isn’t yet high enough to qualify for a mortgage. Additionally, renting may be the only viable choice for individuals who are unable to afford homeownership due to rising real estate prices in recent years. While traditional thinking often views renting as less beneficial in the long run, it does offer certain advantages. Moreover, renters can implement various financial strategies to strengthen their long-term economic stability.
Boost Your Credit Score as a Renter
Renters can take proactive steps to strengthen their credit by ensuring their on-time rent payments are reported to credit bureaus. One option is to ask their landlord to utilize a service like Experian's RentBureau, which records rental payment history. However, this requires the landlord to be enrolled with a rental payment platform that collabora ...
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Sunday, February 9, 2025 / by Bob Cowan
Orange County, California, is a stunning coastal region along the Pacific Ocean, home to a variety of vibrant cities, each with its own unique charm. From iconic attractions and scenic beaches to thriving communities, there’s something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore the ten largest cities in Orange County and what makes them stand out, along with a glimpse at the county’s three smallest cities.
1. Anaheim
Population: Around 346,824 | Disneyland at Night
Anaheim is most famous for being the location of Disneyland Resort, which features both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. It's also a paradise for sports enthusiasts, with the Los Angeles Angels and Anaheim Ducks calling it home. With its lively neighborhoods and excellent amenities, Anaheim is a dynamic city brimming with energy and potential.
2. Santa Ana
Population: Approximately 310,227
Santa Ana serves as a vibrant cultural hub, home to renowned attractions ...
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