Down Payment Assistance Programs Are Real — and So Are the Scams. Here’s How to Protect Yourself.

Down Payment Assistance (DPA) programs can be a game-changer for homebuyers. Legit programs can help cover part of your down payment and/or closing costs, making homeownership possible sooner than you thought. But there’s a catch: because DPA can sound like “free money,” scammers love to use it as bait. If...

Who Funds Down Payment Assistance (DPA) Programs?

Down Payment Assistance (DPA) programs play a pivotal role in making homeownership more accessible for individuals and families. But have you ever wondered where the funding for these programs comes from? Understanding the sources of DPA funding can shed light on the collaborative efforts that make these initiatives possible. 1....

Down Payment Assistance Programs in the 50 States: Common Themes & Highlights

Shared Features Across State DPA Programs Grant, Loan, or Forgivable ModelsMost DPAs come in one of three forms: grants (non-repayable), deferred second‑mortgage loans (often interest‑free and forgiven after a set period or sale), or forgivable loans if certain conditions—like occupancy—are met. Primary Residence RequirementA near-universal requirement is that assistance be...