DOWN PAYMENT ASSISTANCE
Help With Your Down Payment Is Closer Than You Think
Pete helps Arizona homebuyers access grants, forgivable loans, and other programs designed to make homeownership more affordable.
What Is Down Payment Assistance?
Programs That Make Buying a Home More Attainable
Down payment assistance (DPA) programs help cover some—or even all—of your upfront homebuying costs. Many are specifically designed for first-time buyers, moderate-income households, or those working in public service.
Types of DPA programs include:
Grants that don’t need to be repaid
True “free money” if you meet requirements
Forgivable second mortgages
Loans that are forgiven after you stay in the home for a set time
Low-interest loans
spread out your down payment or closing costs over time
Arizona Specific Insight
Arizona's Local Down Payment Assistance Programs
Arizona offers several state-specific programs, like the Arizona Home Plus Program, that provide up to 5% of the loan amount in assistance. Cities and counties often have their own grants — for example, Pima Tucson Homebuyer’s Solution or Scottsdale’s First Time Homebuyer Program. Availability, income limits, and credit score requirements vary, so having a mortgage pro navigate the options is key.
Who Can Qualify For Dpa?
You May Be Eligible If You…
Buying a property that exceeds conventional loan limits, such as luxury homes, custom builds, or high-value residences in competitive markets.
Are a first-time or returning homebuyer
Are buying a primary residence
Have moderate income (varies by area)
Have decent credit (580 or higher in many cases)
Work in education, healthcare, military, or public safety
Pro Tip
Even in a seller’s market, some buyers successfully negotiate seller credits to combine with DPA, further reducing out-of-pocket costs.
Gotchas To Know Before You Apply
A Few Things to Know Before You Apply
Program Funds Can Run Out
Some DPA programs are funded annually and close when money is gone. Early application matters.
Residency Requirements
Many programs require you to live in the home for 3–5 years to avoid repayment.
Higher Interest Rates
Certain DPA programs increase your base interest rate slightly to offset the assistance.
Extra Paperwork
DPA adds an extra layer of underwriting and may extend closing times by 1–2 weeks. Pete knows how to keep things moving.
How Pete Matches You With The Right Program
Local Knowledge + Loan Strategy = Maximum Savings
Pete has access to multiple local and statewide programs across Arizona and knows how to layer them with your primary mortgage for the biggest benefit.
What you can expect:
- A personalized assessment of your eligibility
- Help combining DPA with FHA, VA, or conventional loans in Arizona
- Guidance through income limits, timelines, and paperwork
- Clear explanation of how assistance impacts your monthly payment
“Pete was very knowledgeable and easy to work with during the entire process. He explained all of my options and was in constant communication so I knew what to expect. I highly recommend Pete and his team!”
Natalie P.
Satisfied Loan Client
HELOC vs. Cash-Out Refinance
Program Comparison Table
Sometimes a full refinance isn’t the right tool. If you have a low rate on your current mortgage but want to tap into your home’s equity, a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) might be the better choice.
| Program Type | Repayment Required? | Typical Assistance Amount | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grant | No | Up to 5% of loan amount | First-time buyers | Limited funds, first-come-first-served |
| Forgivable 2nd Mortgage | No (after 3–5 years) | 3–5% | Buyers planning to stay long-term | Repay if you sell early |
| Low-Interest Loan | Yes | Varies | Buyers needing extra funds but OK with repayment | Keeps main mortgage rate low |
| Employer/Occupation-Based | Sometimes | $5K–$15K | Teachers, healthcare, first responders | Often combined with other DPA |
Arizona Down Payment Assistance
Common Questions
Can I combine down payment assistance with seller credits?
Yes. In some cases, you can stack DPA with seller credits to cover both your down payment and most closing costs.
Do I have to be a first-time buyer?
Not always. Many programs define “first-time” as not having owned a home in the past three years.
Will Down Payment Assistance slow down my closing?
It can add time if not managed well. Pete coordinates directly with the DPA administrator to keep timelines on track.
How does Down Payment Assistance affect my interest rate?
Some programs have slightly higher rates than market averages. Pete helps you compare the lifetime cost vs. benefit before committing.
What credit score do I need?
It varies. Some programs allow 580 with FHA, others require 640+ for conventional.
Still Have Questions?
We’ve gathered our best resources to help you move forward with confidence.
Don’t Let the Down Payment Hold You Back
You may be closer to owning a home than you think. Pete can help you unlock assistance options today.