The DCCA program is a “silent-second” loan program, which means that a buyer must still qualify for a first mortgage through a qualified private lender but that the City will loan the buyer additional funds in the form of a second mortgage to make the purchase affordable to the buyer’s income level.  Unlike the first mortgage, the buyer will not have to make monthly payments of principal and interest on the second mortgage loan from the City (i.e. “silent-second”). Buyers should be aware that the second mortgage obtained through the DCCA program will accrue simple interest over the life of the loan (typically 30 years) at a rate of 3% per year. So, for example, if a borrower obtains a DCCA loan in the principal amount of $70,000, $2,100 of interest ($70,000 x 3% = $2,100) will be added to the DCCA loan’s principal amount each year it is outstanding.

The DCCA program will assist with purchases of condominiums, townhomes, or single-family detached homes located anywhere within the municipal boundaries of the City of La Mesa.  Please be aware that some properties, west, south, and east of La Mesa can have La Mesa addresses, even though they are not physically located within La Mesa’s municipal boundary.  The City will not assist purchases of properties located outside the City. 

The DCCA program is subject to funding availability and is available only to those who qualify under the program guidelines and income limits, as determined by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the City of La Mesa. Interested parties should review the Program Guidelines and contact the Program Administrator at (619) 667-1192 for an eligibility assessment.  Lenders should contact Diane Lias of the San Diego Housing Commission at 619.578.7492 to become a preferred lender for both La Mesa's program and San Diego's program.