Maybe a gift of some sort?

It is a true gift that you can work on the next property that you will own.

keep in mind that 100% of the down payment can be a gift.  

This value of the house in excess of the amount you pay is a gift.

Your downpayment options start at 0%, your closing costs can be borrowed/gifted (not an issue for you) and your co-signer is the US government which leads to awesome interest rates.I don't recommend that you get tricky with your first purchase.  

Run ads that say:-No banks needed, owner financing, must sell-Owner Must Sell Now, Take Over PaymentsGive them large gift certificates for moving in by the end of the month.

I have read that section 8 housing can be a gift and a curse, but that there are a LOT of positives to renting to section 8 tenants.

$100 gift card with a 6 month lease?

If it's a gift, you'll just need a gift letter.

As you already know, in a community property state (CA), you two own everything equally (as long as the property was not purchased prior to marriage, or was inherited or gifted to you personally).