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Explore Nationally Available Homebuyer Grants & Assistance Programs

Explore Nationwide programs and grants that make homeownership more affordable—discover options, eligibility, and benefits designed to lower costs and help you buy a home with confidence.

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Homebuyer Grants & Assistance Programs

Why These Programs Matter

Buying a home can feel challenging when upfront costs like down payments and closing fees stand in the way. Fortunately, homebuyer grants and assistance programs designed to make homeownership more affordable by reducing financial barriers and providing tailored support for different types of buyers.

Owning a home isn’t just a dream—it’s a lifestyle. But for many buyers, the biggest hurdle isn’t finding the perfect house—it’s overcoming the upfront costs.

That’s where National homebuyer grants and assistance programs come in. These programs are designed to open doors by reducing down payments, covering closing costs, and offering tailored support for first-time buyers, veterans, and families. Whether you’re looking to plant roots in the desert or settle into a quiet suburban neighborhood, these resources can help you save thousands and move into your new home sooner.

Your home is closer than you think—explore the programs that make it possible.

National Programs

HUD HOME Investment Partnerships Program
The HOME program, administered by HUD, provides grants to states and local governments to fund affordable housing initiatives. Assistance can include down payment help, closing costs, or rehabilitation, often structured as grants or deferred-payment loans.

Pros:

  • Available nationwide through state and local agencies.
  • Flexible use for purchase, rehab, or construction.
  • Supports low-income households.

Cons:

  • Income must not exceed 80% of area median income.
  • Requires property to be primary residence.
  • Availability and terms vary by state/local administration.
Housing Choice Voucher Homeownership Program
This HUD program allows eligible families to use their rental vouchers toward homeownership costs, including mortgage payments and housing expenses.
 

Pros:

  • Converts rental assistance into homeownership support.
  • Helps low-income families transition from renting to owning.
  • Available nationwide through local housing authorities.

Cons:

  • Must meet income limits and employment requirements.
  • Requires completion of homebuyer education.
  • Limited to first-time buyers.
Good Neighbor Next Door Program
HUD offers a 50% discount on homes in revitalization areas for teachers, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and EMTs.
 

Pros:

  • Huge savings—half off the home price.
  • Encourages community development.
  • Available in designated revitalization areas nationwide.

Cons:

  • Restricted to specific professions.
  • Must live in the home for at least 36 months.
  • Limited inventory in qualifying areas.
FHA Loans with Down Payment Assistance
While not a grant by itself, FHA loans are government-backed and often paired with federal or state assistance programs to reduce upfront costs.
 

Pros:

  • Low down payment (3.5%).
  • Flexible credit requirements.
  • Works with many assistance programs.

Cons:

  • Requires mortgage insurance.
  • Income and property limits may apply.
  • Not a direct grant—loan repayment required.
Program
HUD HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME)
Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Homeownership Program
Good Neighbor Next Door (GNND) (HUD)
Income Limit
≤ 80% AMI (set by local Participating Jurisdiction)
Typically ≤ 50–80% AMI (varies by Public Housing Authority)
No AMI test
Credit Score
No HUD‑set minimum; lender/LOCAL PJ may set standards
PHA/lender determined; no single national minimum
Lender determined; program does not set a minimum
Location
Nationwide, administered by state & local “Participating Jurisdictions” (PJs) that receive HOME funds
Nationwide where local PHAs offer the homeownership option
Nationwide in HUD‑designated revitalization areas (inventory fluctuates)
Other Requirements
Must be primary residence; property value ≤ 95% of area median purchase price; assistance can be grant or deferred/low‑rate loan; PJ must enforce resale/recapture provisions; homebuyer education commonly required.
Must be a first-time buyer (or meet HUD exceptions), complete HUD‑approved homebuyer education, meet employment/income rules; voucher helps with monthly mortgage & housing expenses (assistance, not a loan).
Eligible professions only: law enforcement, teachers (PreK–12), firefighters, EMTs; 50% off list price; must owner‑occupy for 36 months; limited property availability; standard mortgage qualification applies.

Ready to find the perfect Arizona program for your home purchase? Check your eligibility now and start saving thousands!

 

Check Eligibility

Frequently Asked Questions

What are homebuyer grants?

Homebuyer grants are financial assistance programs that help cover costs like down payments, closing costs, and other upfront expenses when purchasing a home. Unlike loans, grants often don’t need to be repaid if you meet program requirements.

Are there government grants for homebuyers?

  • HOME Investment Partnerships Program – Helps low-income buyers with down payment and closing costs.
  • Housing Choice Voucher Homeownership Program – Converts rental vouchers into homeownership assistance.
  • Good Neighbor Next Door – Offers a 50% discount on homes for teachers, law enforcement, firefighters, and EMTs.

Who qualifies for homebuyer grants?

Eligibility varies by program, but common requirements include:

  • Income limits (often based on Area Median Income).
  • First-time homebuyer status.
  • Primary residence requirement.
  • Completion of a homebuyer education course.

Do homebuyer grants cover the entire down payment?

Most grants cover a portion of your down payment and closing costs, typically ranging from 3% to 5% of the loan amount. Some programs also offer forgivable second mortgages after a set period.

Are there grants available nationwide?

Yes! Programs like the National Homebuyers Fund and federal initiatives through HUD are available across the U.S. However, many grants are state or city-specific, so check local options first.

What are the pros and cons of homebuyer grants?

Pros:

  • Reduce upfront costs.
  • Often forgivable after meeting requirements.
  • Can be combined with low-down-payment loans.

Cons:

  • Income and credit restrictions.
  • May require homebuyer education.
  • Limited availability in some areas.

How do I apply for a homebuyer grant?

Start by:

  • Checking state and local housing agencies.
  • Exploring HUD-approved programs.
  • Completing any required homebuyer education courses.
  • Working with a lender familiar with grant programs.

Can I combine grants with FHA, VA, or USDA loans?

Absolutely. Many grants work alongside FHA, VA, and USDA loans, making homeownership more affordable.