2025 Down Payment Assistance Programs in 10 U.S. States
If you're dreaming of homeownership but worried about how to cover the upfront costs, you're not alone. Across the United States, many homebuyers—especially first-timers—are turning to Down Payment Assistance (DPA) programs to bridge the gap between renting and owning. In this post, we’ll break down what DPA is, the different types available, and spotlight 10 powerful programs in various states that could help you buy your home with less money down.
And if you're looking for real-time tips and updates, make sure to follow me on TikTok @Mr.DownPayment and explore more resources at mrdownpayment.com
💼 What is Down Payment Assistance (DPA)?
Down Payment Assistance programs provide financial support to eligible buyers, usually in the form of grants, forgivable loans, or deferred-payment loans that help cover the initial costs of purchasing a home. These programs are often funded by federal, state, or local housing agencies and can be a game-changer for first-time and lower-income homebuyers.
🔹 Types of Down Payment Assistance:
Grants: Free money that doesn’t need to be repaid
Forgivable Loans: Loans that are forgiven after a set time (often 5-10 years)
Deferred Loans: No payments due until the home is sold, refinanced, or paid off
Low-Interest Second Mortgages: Help reduce upfront costs with affordable repayment terms
🌟 Featured DPA Programs in 10 States (2025):
Explore programs by clicking each state to visit their official assistance page and learn the full eligibility requirements.
🇦🇸 Alabama
Program: Step Up Program
Provides up to 4% in down payment assistance for moderate-income homebuyers. Must meet income and credit score guidelines and use an AHFA-approved lender.
🇦🇻 Alaska
Program:AHFC Down Payment Assistance
Offers up to 4% of the loan amount for eligible first-time homebuyers. Assistance may be structured as a loan or grant.
🇶🇪 Arizona
Program: Home Plus DPA Program
Grants up to 5% of the mortgage amount. No repayment required. Designed for low-to-moderate income buyers using a 30-year fixed-rate loan.
🇦🇹 Arkansas
Program:ADFA Down Payment Assistance
Provides up to $15,000 for down payment and closing costs. Works in conjunction with ADFA Move-Up loan programs.
🇺🇸 California
Program:MyHome Assistance Program
Offers up to 3.5% of the home’s purchase price or appraised value. Forgivable after 30 years if not repaid early.
🌋 Colorado
Program:CHFA DPA Grant & Loan
Offers up to 3% of your first mortgage amount as a grant or second mortgage. Available for first-time and repeat buyers.
🇬🇹 Connecticut
Program:CHFA DAP Loan
Provides up to $20,000 as a low-interest second loan to cover down payment and closing costs.
🇪🇸 Delaware
Program:DSHA Preferred Plus
Offers up to 5% of the mortgage loan as a second loan with zero interest. Forgiven after 10 years.
🇫🇷 Florida
Program:Florida Assist (FL Assist)
Provides up to $10,000 in a 0% deferred second mortgage. Available with Florida Housing’s first mortgage programs.
🇬🇺 Georgia
Program:Georgia Dream
Offers up to $10,000 in assistance ($12,500 for eligible public service professionals). Must meet income and purchase price limits.
🚀 Ready to Take the Next Step?
These programs are real, accessible, and designed to help you stop renting and start owning. Bookmark this blog and check back next week as we spotlight 10 more states in our 5-part DPA series!
For personalized guidance and buyer tips, visit mrdownpayment.com and follow @Mr.DownPayment on TikTok for real-time insights.
Let’s get you home.🏡