Down Payment Assistance
Don't let upfront costs stand between you and homeownership. Down payment assistance programs can provide grants, forgivable loans, and other resources to help you cover your down payment and closing costs.
Quick Answer
Down payment assistance programs offer grants, forgivable loans, and low-interest second mortgages to help cover your down payment and closing costs. Many programs are available regardless of income in targeted areas. Joshua Donion helps you identify and combine programs to minimize your out-of-pocket costs.
What Is Down Payment Assistance?
Down payment assistance (DPA) programs are offered by state and local housing agencies, nonprofits, and other organizations to help homebuyers bridge the gap between their savings and the upfront costs of purchasing a home. These programs can significantly reduce or eliminate the out-of-pocket expense of a down payment and closing costs, making homeownership accessible to more families. Joshua Donion can guide you through available programs in your area and help you maximize the assistance you qualify for.
Types of DPA Programs
Down payment assistance comes in several forms. The right option depends on your financial situation and the programs available in your area.
Grants
Grants provide funds that do not need to be repaid, making them the most advantageous form of down payment assistance. Offered by state housing finance agencies, local governments, and nonprofit organizations, grant amounts typically range from a few thousand dollars up to 5% of the purchase price.
Forgivable Loans
Forgivable loans are second mortgages that are forgiven after a set period — usually five to fifteen years — as long as you remain in the home and meet program requirements. If you sell or refinance before the forgiveness period ends, you may need to repay a portion of the loan.
Deferred Payment Loans
Deferred payment loans require no monthly payments and carry zero or low interest. Repayment is deferred until you sell the home, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage. These loans effectively reduce your upfront costs with minimal impact on your monthly budget.
Matched Savings Programs
Also known as Individual Development Accounts (IDAs), matched savings programs match the funds you save for a down payment — often at a 2:1 or 3:1 ratio. These programs require participation in financial literacy courses and a commitment to consistent saving over a set period.
Who Qualifies?
First-Time Homebuyers
Most DPA programs prioritize first-time homebuyers. However, the definition of "first-time buyer" is broader than you might think — it typically includes anyone who has not owned a home in the past three years, as well as single parents and displaced homemakers.
Income-Based Eligibility
Many programs set income limits based on the area median income (AMI) for your county. Limits vary by program and household size, but borrowers earning up to 80% to 120% of AMI are often eligible for assistance.
Location-Based Programs
Some DPA programs are tied to specific geographic areas, such as targeted urban revitalization zones, rural communities, or designated opportunity neighborhoods. Purchasing in these areas may unlock additional funding or more favorable terms.
How to Apply
1. Consult With Joshua
Schedule a consultation to review your financial situation, identify programs you may qualify for, and develop a strategy that maximizes your available assistance.
2. Complete Requirements
Many DPA programs require homebuyer education courses, financial counseling, or documentation of income and assets. Joshua will guide you through each requirement so nothing is overlooked.
3. Apply & Close
Once your eligibility is confirmed, down payment assistance is layered on top of your primary mortgage. The funds are typically disbursed at closing, reducing or eliminating your out-of-pocket costs.
Qualification Criteria
Each down payment assistance program has its own specific requirements. Here are the most common factors that determine your eligibility.
First-Time Buyer Status
Most programs require that you have not owned a home within the past three years. Some programs extend eligibility to repeat buyers in targeted areas or those who previously lost a home due to a natural disaster or other qualifying event.
Income Requirements
Your household income must fall within the program's published limits, which are typically set as a percentage of the area median income. Limits vary by program, county, and household size, so it is important to verify eligibility for each specific program.
Homebuyer Education
Many DPA programs require completion of a HUD-approved homebuyer education course. These courses cover budgeting, the mortgage process, and the responsibilities of homeownership, and can be completed online or in person.
Property Requirements
The home must typically be your primary residence and meet minimum property standards. Some programs restrict assistance to certain property types, price ranges, or geographic areas. Investment properties and second homes generally do not qualify.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I combine down payment assistance with an FHA or conventional loan?
Yes. Most DPA programs are designed to work alongside FHA, conventional, VA, and USDA loans. The assistance is typically structured as a second lien that layers on top of your primary mortgage, and Joshua can help you identify the best combination for your situation.
Do I have to pay back down payment assistance?
It depends on the program. Grants do not require repayment. Forgivable loans are forgiven after a set period (usually five to fifteen years) if you remain in the home. Deferred payment loans are repaid when you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage. Each program has its own terms.
How much assistance can I receive?
Assistance amounts vary by program and location, typically ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 or more. Some programs provide a percentage of the purchase price (such as 3% to 5%), while others offer a fixed dollar amount. Multiple programs can sometimes be combined.
Will down payment assistance slow down my closing?
In most cases, no. When DPA is coordinated early in the mortgage process, the additional paperwork can be completed alongside your primary loan application. Joshua ensures that all program requirements are addressed upfront to avoid delays at closing.
Are down payment assistance programs only for low-income buyers?
Not necessarily. While many programs target low- to moderate-income households, income limits are often set at 80% to 120% of the area median income, which can include middle-income earners in higher-cost markets. Some programs are available regardless of income for buyers purchasing in targeted areas.
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