Most states run down payment assistance programs through their housing finance agency, but the rules differ a lot: some help only first-time buyers, some add extra money for teachers, nurses or veterans, and some pay a percentage of the price while others pay a flat amount.
Down Payment Assistance Finder
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Answer a few questions to see which programs in your state may fit you and about how much each could give you. Nothing you enter is sent anywhere.
How down payment assistance usually works
- Grants don’t have to be repaid. They’re the least common type.
- Forgivable loans are a second mortgage that’s forgiven over time, often 5 to 15 years, if you keep living in the home.
- Deferred loans charge little or no interest and have no monthly payment, but you repay them when you sell, refinance or pay off your first mortgage.
- Repayable loans have a monthly payment, usually at 0% or a low rate.
- Rate discounts and tax credits don’t help with the down payment itself but lower your monthly cost or your federal income tax.
What to check before you apply
- Income and price limits depend on your county and household size; check the agency’s current table.
- A participating lender is required. Most agencies’ help works only with their own first mortgage.
- Homebuyer education is usually required before closing; many courses are online.
- Funds can run out. Some programs are marked “limited funds” and close when the money for the year is used.
- The real cost. A deferred loan adds a second lien you’ll repay later, so compare it with simply saving a bit more or with a lower-rate loan.
State guides
The finder covers the states we’ve researched so far, and more are added every week. Each guide lists the programs, limits and how to apply: California · Florida · Georgia · Illinois · Michigan · New York · North Carolina · Ohio · Pennsylvania · Texas. For loan types that work in every state, see first-time home buyer programs nationwide.
How we built this: every program, amount and rule comes from our state guides, which are checked on each state housing agency’s own website. Estimates use the percentage or dollar amounts the agencies publish; your lender will confirm the exact figure. Checked November 11, 2026.