Harris County’s premier program for helping low- to moderate-income families purchase their first home.
Verify Your Harris County Down Payment Assistance Eligibility
The Harris County Down Payment Assistance Program provides crucial financial support to first-time homebuyers in the area.
Offering up to $40,000 based on documented need, this program is designed to reduce the barriers to homeownership by covering down payment, closing costs, and other eligible homebuyer expenses.
With its focus on low- to moderate-income families, the program opens doors for many residents, ensuring affordable homeownership within Harris County, Texas.
Qualifying participants also benefit from mortgage counseling services, helping them make informed decisions.
Harris County’s Down Payment Assistance Program offers eligible homebuyers up to $40,000 based on need. The standard award is up to $27,100 before eligible incentives.
This assistance significantly reduces the upfront cost of purchasing a home, making homeownership more accessible.
Eligible applicants benefit from a forgivable loan, provided they remain in the home for a designated period.
The program is an excellent option for first-time buyers looking to secure affordable financing and long-term housing stability in the county.
To qualify for the Harris County Down Payment Assistance Program, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, including:
Be a first-time homebuyer or not have owned a home in the last three years.
Purchase an eligible home in an unincorporated Harris County service area.
Meet income requirements based on household size.
Have a credit score of at least 580 and meet the program's 39% housing and 42% total debt-to-income limits.
Must complete a HUD-approved homebuyer education course.
Contribute at least $1,000 and have no more than $30,000 in liquid assets.
Choose an eligible existing home priced at $285,000 or less, or a newly constructed home priced at $296,000 or less.
The Harris County Down Payment Assistance Program provides up to $40,000 based on need through a zero-interest, deferred, forgivable loan.
The affordability period is five years for assistance below $25,000 and ten years for assistance from $25,000 through $40,000. The balance is forgiven when the occupancy and program terms are met for the full period.
This unique loan structure provides peace of mind to first-time homebuyers, ensuring they can focus on long-term homeownership without the stress of repayment.
Harris County, Texas is dedicated to supporting its residents through personalized guidance, local expertise, and a commitment to making homeownership more accessible.
By choosing the Harris County Down Payment Assistance Program, buyers receive more than just financial assistance—they gain a dedicated team that understands the local market and is committed to helping them secure their dream home.
