The Issue
Homeowners insurance costs in California are climbing. In San Diego, many buyers are seeing double-digit renewal increases. For first-time buyers, these added costs can derail closings or, at a minimum, strain budgets. The impact is particularly acute for local education employees, whose salaries often lag the region’s cost of living.
FAQ at the bottom of this page.
A grant application link will
be available on November 1st
The Solution
The Education Employee Insurance Grant provides up to $2,500 per eligible first-time homebuyer employed as an education employee in San Diego County. Funds offset homeowners' insurance during the first two years of ownership, reducing a key barrier to closing and early retention.
Why This Matters to REALTORS®
- A reason to initiate new conversations within the education community
- Addresses a real affordability hurdle that stalls transactions
- Highlights the insurance crisis in California
- An opportunity to build long-term loyalty by supporting clients beyond closing
- Demonstrates REALTOR® leadership in mitigating a pain point for local homebuyers
How REALTORS® and Education Employees Participate
- Who applies: California REALTOR® submits on the buyer’s behalf. Only transactions with a California REALTOR® are eligible.
- Who Benefits: Education Employees include K–12 public school teachers, school administrators, classified employees, and staff of public charter, district, or county schools.
- When: Applications accepted for homes that closed on or after November 1st on November 1, 2025 – October 31, 2026, or until funds are fully dispersed
- What’s needed: Closing statement, proof of education-employee employment, insurance declarations, and a first-time homebuyer affidavit.
- Process: Submit the complete package to grants@psar.org. PSAR reviews within 10 business days and notifies the REALTOR® & Buyer of the decision. Checks will be mailed to the buyer's address as listed on the application.
- REALTORS® are limited to two approved grants.
Helping education employees into homeownership strengthens ties with schools, families, and neighborhoods. This grant gives REALTORS® a clear, service-driven way to remove a rising cost barrier and deepen community connections.
A portion of this program is funded by the C.A.R. Housing Affordability Fund. To learn more about this fund, or to donate, follow this link. 100% of your donation goes directly into solving the housing crisis in California. REALTORS are also encouraged to contribute during dues billing.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Educator Insurance Grant?
The program provides up to $2,500 in post-closing reimbursement for homeowners insurance to eligible first-time homebuyers employed as educators in San Diego County.
Who qualifies as an “educator”?
Eligible educators include K–12 public school teachers, school administrators, classified employees, and staff of public charter, district, or county schools located in San Diego County.
Who can apply for the grant?
Any REALTORS® selling a home in San Diego County may apply on behalf of their clients. Transactions must involve a California REALTOR® for the buyer to be eligible.
Who reviews and approves the applications?
PSAR staff process, verify, and prepare approvals. Final disbursement approval follows PSAR’s internal controls.
Who can REALTORS® contact with questions?
Email grants@psar.org
Who can homebuyers contact with questions?
Homebuyers must speak with their REALTOR® about this program. Inquiries will be directed to the buyer’s REALTOR®.
When is the application period?
Applications are accepted November 1, 2025 through October 31, 2026, or until all available funds are disbursed, whichever comes first.
When must the home have been sold?
The home must have closed on or after November 1st, 2025 and before the funds run out or the funds run out.
What are the buyer’s eligibility requirements?
Must be a first-time homebuyer (no ownership of a primary residence in the last 3 years)
Must plan to occupy the home as a primary residence
Must be employed as an educator in San Diego County
How much assistance is available?
Each grant reimburses up to $2,500 in homeowners' insurance, covering up to two years of premiums. If actual insurance costs are less than $2,500, reimbursement is limited to the documented amount.PSAR has set aside $100,000 in grant money.
How does the process work?
REALTOR® completes the application with the client.
REALTOR® gathers all required documentation.
REALTOR® emails the full package to grants@psar.org.
PSAR staff review within 10 business days.
REALTOR® is notified of approval and must notify the client.
Funds are disbursed by check and mailed directly to the client.
How many grants can a REALTOR® submit?
Each REALTOR® may submit up to two approved grant applications during the program period.
How does this empower REALTORS®?
The grant helps REALTORS® connect with local educators, reduce a real affordability barrier, and demonstrate REALTORS®’ value as trusted advisors.
What documentation is required?
Final Closing Disclosure, Settlement Statement, or recorded Grant Deed
Proof of educator employment (e.g., pay stub, HR letter, or contract)
Homeowners insurance declarations page(s) (Year 1; Year 2 estimate if available)
Signed First-Time Homebuyer Affidavit
Why did PSAR choose to focus this grant program on educators?
Educators are essential to the community and often face significant barriers to homeownership. Salaries may lag the region’s cost of living while housing and insurance costs rise. By focusing on educators—including teachers, administrators, counselors, and classified staff—REALTORS® can help stabilize the local workforce, strengthen ties with schools and families, and address a real affordability challenge.
More Information
REALTORS® For questions, visit www.psar.org/grants or email grants@psar.org.
Media inquiries: ceo@psar.org (copy support@psar.org)
Buyers, please ask your REALTOR®