Anaheim’s new first-time homebuyer program offers up to $50,000 as a silent second—funded by Disney’s $30M housing commitment. Details & video.
We’re Amber & Jenn with the Heart & Home Team—and there’s real Disney magic at work in Anaheim’s housing scene. Thanks to a new city program seeded by Disney’s community investment, qualified first-time buyers could receive up to $50,000 toward a down payment.
What’s happening?
Disney’s $30 million affordable-housing commitment to Anaheim is structured in two installments; the first $15 million has already been received, helping launch the city’s new housing trust.
From that trust, $5 million is earmarked for a citywide first-time homebuyer program providing $50,000 toward down payments.
Why it matters: In 2025, the income needed to afford a median OC single-family home was estimated at about $373,200—a huge hurdle for many would-be buyers. Programs like this can help close the gap.
How the assistance works (in plain English)
The city plans to offer the down-payment help as a “silent second” mortgage—a deferred, subordinate loan. In most cases, you make no monthly payments on the second loan while you own the home. The assistance is typically repaid when you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage, which helps keep your monthly payment lower today.
Program snapshot
Benefit: Up to $50,000 toward your down payment (silent second).
Initial funding pool: $5 million (estimated to help ~100 households at $50k each).
Goal: Make it easier for ready buyers to cross the down-payment threshold and build equity sooner.
Who may qualify?
City materials indicate the program is aimed at first-time buyers who live and/or work in Anaheim, with eligibility parameters still being finalized. Draft guidance references income limits up to roughly 150% of Area Median Income (AMI), while the city’s press release also references a $200,000 household-income cap—both pointing to middle-income buyers who are shut out by down-payment hurdles. Expect final criteria (income, education course, contribution %, property type, etc.) at launch.
Tip: Anaheim’s Affordable Homeownership page posts updates when programs open—bookmark it and check back.
Why this is a big deal for OC buyers
Real money where it matters most. A $50k boost can improve loan qualification and reduce mortgage insurance or monthly payment needs.
Deferred payments = lower monthly costs now. The silent-second structure preserves monthly affordability while you own the home.
Part of a larger affordability push. Disney’s commitment jump-started the trust, which also funds affordable rental housing and eviction-prevention efforts.
Get prepared now (so you’re first in line)
Check your budget & credit. A lender pre-approval clarifies your price range and strengthens your application.
Complete a HUD-approved first-time buyer course if required—these often speed things up once applications open. (Anaheim generally requires homebuyer education for city programs.)
Gather your funds. The draft guidelines anticipate a minimum 3% buyer contribution (with limits on gift funds).
Work with a local team (hi! 👋) that knows Anaheim inventory, pricing, and program timelines.
We’ll walk you through it
The program is being rolled out by the City of Anaheim; funding and slots are limited, and details can evolve. If this sounds like an opportunity for you, we’ll help you get mortgage-ready, monitor updates, and apply as soon as the window opens.
About the Heart & Home Team
We’re neighbors, parents, and local real estate pros who believe homeownership changes lives. Curious whether you could qualify—or what you might afford with a $50k boost? Let’s run the numbers together.
Connect with us:
Website: www.HeartAndHomeFamily.com
Email: info@andhomefamily.com
Call/Text: (714) 875-2753
Instagram: @HeartAndHomeTeam
