Down Payment Assistance Programs in Arizona (2026 Guide)

# Down Payment Assistance Programs in Arizona (2026 Guide) Saving for a down payment is one of the biggest hurdles for first-time home buyers. Fortunately, Arizona offers 2 assistance programs that can help you achieve homeownership sooner than you thought possible. ## Arizona Housing Agency All state DPA programs are administered by Arizona Department of Housing (ADOH). **Contact Information:** - Website: [https://housing.az.gov](https://housing.az.gov) - Phone: 602-771-1000 ## Available Programs Arizona offers 2 major down payment assistance programs: ### Pathway to Purchase | Feature | Details | |---------|---------| | Maximum Assistance | Up to 10% of loan amount ($20,000 max) | | Program Type | Grant | | Description | Available in 17 designated cities. Requires 640+ credit score. For down payment or closing costs. | ### HOME Plus | Feature | Details | |---------|---------| | Maximum Assistance | Up to 5% of loan amount | | Program Type | Forgivable Loan | | Description | Forgivable after 3 years of on-time payments. First-time buyers and repeat buyers eligible. | ## How to Apply ### Step 1: Check Your Eligibility Most programs require: - First-time homebuyer status (no home ownership in past 3 years) - Income at or below program limits - Minimum credit score (usually 620-640) - Home price within program limits ### Step 2: Complete Homebuyer Education All ADOH programs require completion of a HUD-approved homebuyer education course. This prepares you for the responsibilities of homeownership. ### Step 3: Work with an Approved Lender ADOH maintains a list of approved lenders trained in their programs. These lenders can help you combine DPA with your mortgage. ### Step 4: Find Your Home Once pre-approved, work with a real estate agent to find a home within program price limits. ## Combining with Your Mortgage Down payment assistance can be layered with various loan types: | Loan Type | Min Down | With ADOH DPA | |-----------|----------|--------------------------| | FHA | 3.5% | DPA covers most or all | | Conventional | 3-5% | DPA covers most or all | | VA | 0% | DPA for closing costs | | USDA | 0% | DPA for closing costs | ## Real Cost Savings With Arizona's median home price of $425,000: | Scenario | Down Payment Needed | With Max DPA | |----------|--------------------|--------------| | FHA (3.5%) | $14,875 | Potentially $0 | | Conventional (5%) | $21,250 | Significantly reduced | | Conventional (20%) | $85,000 | Reduced by DPA amount | ## Conclusion Don't let down payment concerns keep you from homeownership. Arizona's DPA programs have helped thousands of first-time buyers achieve their dream. Contact ADOH today to learn which programs you qualify for. Use our [Arizona Mortgage Calculator](/mortgage-calculator/arizona) to see how DPA affects your monthly payment. --- *Source: Arizona Department of Housing. Program details subject to change. Contact ADOH for current requirements.*