San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond introduced a proposal Tuesday aimed at making homeownership more accessible for first-time buyers in San Diego County, including residents in the unincorporated East County communities he represents.

The proposal directs the County's Chief Administrative Officer to assess a pilot program that would include down-payment assistance, interest-rate buy-downs, and partnerships with financial institutions to secure better loan terms for applicants.

The analysis would evaluate opportunities for public-private partnerships, criteria to complement two existing first-time buyer programs that help with down payments and closing costs, and an estimate of costs and risk management strategies. The CAO and staff would report back to the Board of Supervisors within 120 days.

The backdrop is stark: data from the California Association of Realtors shows that only 13% of San Diego County households can afford to purchase a median-priced home. Desmond cited stagnant wages, limited housing inventory, and elevated interest rates as compounding factors.

"The very people who serve our communities are being priced out," Desmond said in a video promoting the measure. "Owning a home isn't about property — it's about dignity, it's about stability. It's also about giving families a foundation to build wealth and put down roots."

Desmond, who will complete his second term as District 5 supervisor in January, is running for Congress in the 48th Congressional District to succeed Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Bonsall, who announced his retirement. The District 5 represents much of East County including Santee, El Cajon, La Mesa, and adjacent unincorporated communities.