Arizona Homebuyer Programs

Down Payment Assistance Programs in Arizona

Don't let the down payment stand between you and homeownership. Arizona offers several programs that can cover your down payment and closing costs — sometimes completely.

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What Is Down Payment Assistance?

Down Payment Assistance (DPA) programs are state, county, or nonprofit-funded initiatives that provide eligible homebuyers with money to cover their down payment and/or closing costs. In Arizona, these programs are administered through the Arizona Department of Housing (ADOH) and partnering lenders.

DPA can come in two forms: a grant (free money that doesn't need to be repaid) or a silent second lien (a small second mortgage that is forgiven after a set period or repaid when you sell or refinance).

These programs are typically combined with FHA, conventional, VA, or USDA first mortgages — meaning you can stack DPA on top of your primary loan to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Arizona DPA Programs We Work With

State-backed programs available to qualifying Arizona buyers

Statewide

HOME Plus Program

Arizona's flagship DPA program offers a grant of 3–5% of the loan amount to cover down payment and closing costs. Available statewide with FHA, VA, USDA, and Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac conventional loans.

No repayment required (grant)
Up to 5% assistance
Available statewide
Multiple loan types eligible

Select Cities

Pathway to Purchase

Provides up to $20,000 in down payment assistance for buyers purchasing in eligible Arizona cities. Structured as a silent second lien, forgiven after 5 years of owner-occupancy.

Up to $20,000 assistance
Forgiven after 5 years
Available in select cities
Combined with FHA/conventional

FHA Paired

Chenoa Fund

A national DPA program available in Arizona that provides 3.5% down payment assistance paired with an FHA loan — effectively allowing 0% out-of-pocket on your down payment.

3.5% down payment covered
Paired with FHA loans
Repayable or forgivable options
No first-time buyer requirement

Varies

Lender-Specific DPA

Many lenders offer their own proprietary DPA programs with unique eligibility criteria. We work with multiple wholesale lenders to find the best combination for your situation.

Varies by lender
May stack with state programs
Income limits vary
Ask us about current offers

Eligibility Overview

Eligibility varies by program, but most Arizona DPA programs share these general requirements:

First-time homebuyer (or not owned a home in 3+ years) — some programs waive this requirement

Income at or below program limits (typically 80–120% of Area Median Income)

Property must be your primary residence

Minimum credit score of 640 for most programs (some allow 620)

Complete a HUD-approved homebuyer education course

Property must be located in Arizona (some programs limited to specific counties or cities)

How It Works: Step by Step

Check Your Eligibility

We review your income, credit, and location to identify which DPA programs you qualify for — often multiple options.

Choose Your Loan + DPA Combination

We pair the best first mortgage (FHA, conventional, VA, or USDA) with the DPA program that maximizes your benefit.

Complete Homebuyer Education

Most programs require a short online or in-person HUD-approved homebuyer education course (typically 6–8 hours).

Submit Your Application

We handle the paperwork for both the first mortgage and the DPA program simultaneously to streamline your closing.

Close & Move In

DPA funds are applied at closing, reducing or eliminating your out-of-pocket down payment and closing costs.

Who Is This For?

First-time homebuyers who have steady income but limited savings
Buyers who have been renting and want to stop paying someone else's mortgage
Moderate-income households who earn too much for some programs but still need help
Teachers, nurses, first responders, and public servants (some programs offer enhanced benefits)
Buyers in eligible Arizona cities looking to maximize their purchasing power
Anyone who wants to preserve cash reserves after closing

Let's Find the Right DPA Program for You

Down payment assistance programs change frequently. Our team stays current on every available Arizona program so you don't miss out on money you qualify for.

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