Down Payment Assistance Programs in Connecticut (2026 Guide)

# Down Payment Assistance Programs in Connecticut (2026 Guide) Saving for a down payment is one of the biggest hurdles for first-time home buyers. Fortunately, Connecticut offers 2 assistance programs that can help you achieve homeownership sooner than you thought possible. ## Connecticut Housing Agency All state DPA programs are administered by Connecticut Housing Finance Authority (CHFA). **Contact Information:** - Website: [https://www.chfa.org](https://www.chfa.org) - Phone: 860-721-9501 ## Available Programs Connecticut offers 2 major down payment assistance programs: ### DAP Loan Program | Feature | Details | |---------|---------| | Maximum Assistance | Up to $20,000 | | Program Type | Second Mortgage | | Description | Low-interest second mortgage for first-time buyers. Income limits apply. | ### Time to Own Program | Feature | Details | |---------|---------| | Maximum Assistance | Competitive interest rates | | Program Type | Second Mortgage | | Description | 30-year fixed-rate mortgage with various DPA options. | ## 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 CHFA 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 CHFA 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 CHFA 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 Connecticut's median home price of $343,200: | Scenario | Down Payment Needed | With Max DPA | |----------|--------------------|--------------| | FHA (3.5%) | $12,012 | Potentially $0 | | Conventional (5%) | $17,160 | Significantly reduced | | Conventional (20%) | $68,640 | Reduced by DPA amount | ## Conclusion Don't let down payment concerns keep you from homeownership. Connecticut's DPA programs have helped thousands of first-time buyers achieve their dream. Contact CHFA today to learn which programs you qualify for. Use our [Connecticut Mortgage Calculator](/mortgage-calculator/connecticut) to see how DPA affects your monthly payment. --- *Source: Connecticut Housing Finance Authority. Program details subject to change. Contact CHFA for current requirements.*