FREE CALIFORNIA HOMEOWNERSHIP EDUCATION
Homeownership,
explained simply.
Free, bite-sized lessons that help Californians understand buying, owning, and selling a home.
CHOOSE A CHAPTER
What would you like to learn?
14 lessonsBuying a HomeUnderstand mortgages, down payments, offers, inspections, escrow and closing.Explore buying a home 
4 lessonsOwning a HomeUnderstand equity, property taxes, insurance and maintaining your home.Explore owning a home 
6 lessonsSelling a HomeUnderstand preparation, pricing, offers, disclosures, escrow and closing.Explore selling a home POPULAR LESSONS
Start with a useful question.
01Money & mortgages · 3 minWhat a home really costs each monthThe loan payment is only one part of an ownership budget.02Getting started · 3 minPreapproval and credit: what is actually checked?A letter can help you shop, but its value depends on the review behind it.03Money & mortgages · 3 minDown payment, closing costs, and cash to closeKeep the purchase contribution, transaction costs, and remaining savings separate.04California essentials · 3 minEscrow and title: two different jobsLearn how money is held and how ownership claims are reviewed.05Selling a home · 3 minFrom sale price to seller net proceedsThe amount you receive depends on payoffs, negotiated costs, credits, and adjustments.06Owning a home · 3 minEquity, HELOCs, and home equity loansEquity is value minus debt. Accessing it can create new costs and obligations.
How it works
- 01Choose a topic
- 02Learn in about 5 minutes
- 03Keep learning
USEFUL TOOLS
Resources for the next step.
Estimate a payment, learn the language, or check the steps before buying or selling.
Explore All ResourcesHomeownership 101 CA makes California homeownership education easier to understand. About the project Built by DPS Labs Studio.