Eligible First-Time Homebuyers In Pass Area Can Get Down-Payment Help

BEAUMONT, CA—A county-operated program to help low-income, first-time homebuyers in the San Gorgonio Pass Area is continuing.

On Wednesday, Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez's office announced the Riverside County Board of Supervisors recently approved the allocation of $1 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds for down payment assistance qualified first-time buyers in the 5th Supervisorial District.

Administered by the county's Department of Housing and Workforce Solutions, the program offers low-income, first-time homebuyers a maximum of 20% of the home's purchase price (up to $100,000) in down payment assistance.

The assistance is provided through a silent second loan, with recipients not required to make any payments on the loan. Additionally, if the homebuyer fulfills all program requirements, the loan is forgiven after 15 years, according to county officials.

The 5th District includes the cities of Banning, Beaumont, Calimesa, Hemet, Moreno Valley and San Jacinto. District Five also encompasses the unincorporated communities of Cabazon, Cherry Valley, Lakeview, Nuevo, Reche Canyon, San Timoteo Canyon, as well as parts of Valle Vista and Whitewater.

"Homeownership is essential to bringing economic mobility and building generational wealth," Gutierrez said. "With this program, we will help bring life-changing, affordable housing to many of our hardworking families, empowering them while strengthening our community."

Over the last two years, the County of Riverside has assisted 46 households in achieving homeownership, and this program will further expand homeownership opportunities, according to county officials.

Prospective homebuyers interested in this opportunity will need to work with one of the County of Riverside’s approved lenders listed at rivcohws.org/5th-district-home-ownership-program.

Subsequently, applicants must also attend an 8-hour homebuyer education class provided by a HUD-approved education provider, with a list of local providers available at rivcohws.org.

Finally, aspiring homeowners are encouraged to enlist the services of a real estate agent to assist them in locating a home within the designated boundaries of the 5th District.

For inquiries about the program, contact the county's Department of Housing and Workforce Solutions at 951-955-0784 or via email at [email protected].