TL;DR – What Is Assist-to-Own and Who’s Eligible in Lincoln?
Assist-to-Own is a housing assistance program launched by Placer County in 2023. It provides down payment help for county government employees looking to buy a home in the communities they serve. If you work for Placer County and want to buy a home in Lincoln, this program could cover a significant portion of your upfront costs.
Program Overview: How Assist-to-Own Supports Placer County Employees
Assist-to-Own is a forgivable loan program funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Its goal is to help Placer County employees become homeowners within county boundaries by making down payments and closing costs more affordable.
Key Benefits:
- Up to $150,000 in assistance
- 0% interest
- Forgiven after 5 years of continuous residence
- Must work for Placer County (not just live in it)
Program Info via Placer County Housing
How Much Assistance Can You Get?
Eligible buyers can receive a deferred second mortgage for up to $150,000. There are no monthly payments or interest charges. If you stay in the home for five years, the loan is completely forgiven.
This money can be used to:
- Cover your down payment
- Pay closing costs
- Make buying a home in Lincoln financially feasible
Eligibility: Who Qualifies in Lincoln?
To qualify for Assist-to-Own, you must:
- Be a full-time or part-time employee of Placer County government
- Have at least 12 months of service
- Intend to buy a home within Placer County (including Lincoln)
- Be a first-time homebuyer (no ownership in past 3 years)
- Meet income guidelines
Check current income limits: https://www.placer.ca.gov/8427/Assist-to-Own-Program
You’ll also need to:
- Complete a HUD-certified homebuyer education course
- Qualify for a primary mortgage with an approved lender
How to Apply: Step-by-Step for Placer County Workers
- Contact a Participating Lender like Fairway Lincoln to start the process
- Verify Employment Eligibility through Placer County HR
- Take a Homebuyer Education Class (online or in-person)
- Get Pre-Approved for your mortgage
- Find a Home in Lincoln or another eligible Placer community
- Apply for Assist-to-Own Funds (usually through your lender)
- Close the Loan & Move In!
Funds are limited and may be awarded on a rolling basis. Early application is key.
How Assist-to-Own Compares to Other DPA Options
| Program | Max Assistance | Forgivable? | Who It’s For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assist-to-Own | $150,000 | Yes (after 5 years) | Placer County employees |
| CalHFA MyHome | ~3.5% of price | No | First-time CA homebuyers |
| Equity Builder Loan | 10% of price | Yes | Buyers under 80% AMI |
| Placer County FTHB Loan | Up to $150,000 | No (shared appreciation) | First-time buyers countywide |
FAQ: California Dream For All Program
Q: Do I need to repay the loan?
A: No, not if you live in the home for 5 years. Then it’s fully forgiven.
Q: What if I change jobs or move?
A: If you stop working for the county or sell the home before 5 years, the loan must be repaid.
Q: Can I combine Assist-to-Own with other programs?
A: Yes, many buyers pair it with CalHFA or FHA loans.
Q: Does my credit score matter?
A: Yes. You must qualify for a first mortgage, so most lenders require a 640+ score.
Q: Can I buy in Rocklin, Roseville, or Auburn?
A: Yes. Any home within Placer County is eligible, including Lincoln.
Final Thoughts: Is This The Right Program For You?
If you’re a Placer County employee who wants to put down roots in Lincoln, Assist-to-Own is one of the most generous housing programs in California. With up to $150K in forgivable help, it’s a true game-changer for local workers and families.
