Texas Down Payment Assistance Programs

Get grants and low-interest loans to help cover your down payment and closing costs.

What Is Down Payment Assistance?

Down Payment Assistance (DPA) programs provide grants or low-interest loans to help Texas homebuyers cover down payments and closing costs. These programs are designed for first-time buyers, low-to-moderate income families, and specific professions such as teachers and first responders. Many grants never need to be repaid, making homeownership accessible even if you have limited savings.

Who These Programs Are For

First-time homebuyers in Texas (or those who have not owned in 3+ years)
Low-to-moderate income families
Essential workers: teachers, firefighters, police, healthcare workers
Buyers with steady income but limited savings
Families purchasing homes in targeted neighborhoods or cities
Those who qualify for FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional loans but need help with upfront costs

Key Benefits of Down Payment Assistance

Grants Available

Many programs offer grants that never need to be repaid

Covers Down Payment and Closing Costs

Assistance typically ranges from $5,000 to $30,000+

Pre-Underwriting Certainty

Q Mortgage pre-underwrites your loan with DPA included

Statewide and Local Programs

Multiple Texas programs available depending on your location

Combined with Low-Down Loans

Use DPA with FHA, conventional, VA, or USDA loans

How It Works

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

We review your income, employment, location, and loan type to identify available DPA programs.

Step 2: Complete Required Education

Most programs require a homebuyer education course (online or in-person).

Step 3: Get Pre-Underwritten

Q Mortgage pre-underwrites your loan with DPA included so you know your total buying power.

Step 4: Find Your Home

Shop for homes within DPA program limits and guidelines.

Step 5: Apply for Assistance

We submit your DPA application along with your mortgage application.

Step 6: Close and Receive Funds

DPA funds are applied at closing to cover your down payment and closing costs.

Qualification Requirements

First-time homebuyer status (or no homeownership in past 3 years)
Income limits (vary by program and county)
Purchase price limits (vary by program and location)
Credit score typically 640+ (varies by program)
Completion of homebuyer education course
Property must be your primary residence in Texas
Must qualify for an underlying mortgage (FHA, conventional, VA, USDA)
Occupancy requirements (typically 3-5 years minimum)

Common Texas DPA Programs

TSAHC

Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation grants up to $15,000

My First Texas Home

Down payment assistance specifically for first-time buyers

Texas MCC

Texas Mortgage Credit Certificate - tax credit worth thousands annually

City and County Programs

Local assistance in Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, and more

Teacher Next Door

Specialized assistance for educators statewide

Heroes Program

For first responders and essential workers

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to repay down payment assistance?

It depends on the program. Some offer forgivable grants (no repayment if you stay 3-5 years). Others provide low-interest second loans that must be repaid when you sell or refinance.

How much assistance can I get?

Assistance typically ranges from $5,000 to $30,000+ depending on the program, your location, and purchase price.

What are the income limits?

Income limits vary by program and county. Generally, you must earn 80-120% of the area median income. A family of four in some Texas counties can earn up to $90,000-$120,000 and still qualify.

Can I combine DPA with FHA or VA loans?

Yes. DPA can be combined with FHA, conventional, VA, and USDA loans.

What is a homebuyer education course?

A course (usually 6-8 hours, online or in-person) that teaches you about budgeting, credit, mortgages, and homeownership responsibilities. Most DPA programs require completion.

What happens if I sell within the occupancy period?

If you sell before the required occupancy period (typically 3-5 years), you may have to repay some or all of the assistance. Rules vary by program.

Can I use DPA for a condo or townhome?

Yes, as long as the property is your primary residence and meets program guidelines.

How does Q Mortgage help with DPA?

We identify programs you qualify for, guide you through the application process, and pre-underwrite your loan with DPA included for complete certainty.

Find Out How Much Assistance You Can Get

Do not let a lack of savings prevent you from buying a Texas home. Down payment assistance programs can provide thousands in grants and low-interest loans. At Q Mortgage, we know which programs you qualify for and pre-underwrite your loan with DPA included. Stop renting and start building equity.