There are several programs available to individuals seeking to purchase a principle residence.  If you have not had a mortgage on a home during the past 3 years you are very likely classified as a "First Time Home Buyer," but some programs are also available for individuals seeking to purchase their next home.  This is just a small sample of links to available home buyer programs and down payment assistance programs (there are over 200 in CA!) available to individuals who wish to purchase homes in Alameda County or Santa Clara County.  There are programs based on income, profession, residency, location of employment, veteran status, and first time home buyer programs.   I would love to help you discover all of the options available to you, then help you find your next home!  Sellers, some programs can also give you an edge in assisting buyers in purchasing your homes! Contact me if you would like to know which programs may work for you, how to use them, or if you would like to be referred to a loan officer familiar in "layering" these loan programs so that you can become pre-approved for your financing (important to do prior to looking at homes).  

The programs are often based on fund availability and do change often.
(2/1/2012 UPDATE - As a result of Gov. Brown's efforts to close down the city Redevelopment Departments, many City programs are not currently available.  

Contact me for more information about available programs.)