Nevada County, CA (March 2, 2026) – Nevada County has announced the launch of its Down Payment Assistance Program, a new program designed to expand homeownership opportunities for moderate-income households. The program will provide financial assistance to eligible residents seeking to purchase a home within the county.
Supervisors approved the new program in November 2025 to help remove barriers to housing. Chair Lisa Swarthout said, “Homeownership can feel out of reach for people who have lived here their entire lives. This program will help local residents stay in Nevada County and continue contributing to our community and local economy.”
“Supporting pathways to homeownership strengthens our communities and creates long-term stability for local families,” added Tyler Barrington, Director of Housing and Community Services for Nevada County. “This program is an important step toward making homeownership more accessible for Nevada County residents.”
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the program, applicants must have an income between 80%-120% of the area median income (AMI) in Western County and between 80%-150% AMI in Eastern County. A family of four can earn up to $149,500 in Western County and up to $186,900 in Eastern County and qualify for the program. Applicants must be able to provide a pre-approval letter from a first mortgage lender, be a current resident of Nevada County, and live in the home after purchase.
“State and federal programs provide funding for lower income home ownership, but less funds are available for programs serving middle incomes or high-cost areas, such as Truckee. This program aims to help close that gap and put home ownership within reach for middle income earners that still struggle with high housing costs” said Angela Masker, Senior Administrative Analyst for Housing and Community Services in Nevada County
Program Assistance
Eligible applicants may receive $50,000 towards the down payment and purchase of a home located within Nevada County. Applicants qualifying for the higher income level of 150% AMI for Eastern County may purchase a home within the Tahoe Truckee Unified School District.
Assistance is a loan with a simple 3% interest deferred over 30 years, and acts as a silent second mortgage.
More Information
More information about the program and how to apply can be found on the Nevada CountyHousing and Community Services website.