Down Payment Assistance Programs in Delaware (2026 Guide)

# Down Payment Assistance Programs in Delaware (2026 Guide) Saving for a down payment is one of the biggest hurdles for first-time home buyers. Fortunately, Delaware offers 2 assistance programs that can help you achieve homeownership sooner than you thought possible. ## Delaware Housing Agency All state DPA programs are administered by Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA). **Contact Information:** - Website: [https://www.destatehousing.com](https://www.destatehousing.com) - Phone: 302-739-4263 ## Available Programs Delaware offers 2 major down payment assistance programs: ### Preferred Plus Program | Feature | Details | |---------|---------| | Maximum Assistance | Up to 5% of loan amount | | Program Type | Forgivable Loan | | Description | Forgivable after 10 years. Below-market interest rates available. | ### First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit | Feature | Details | |---------|---------| | Maximum Assistance | Up to $2,000/year | | Program Type | Mcc | | Description | Federal income tax credit for portion of mortgage interest paid. | ## 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 DSHA 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 DSHA 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 DSHA 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 Delaware's median home price of $326,800: | Scenario | Down Payment Needed | With Max DPA | |----------|--------------------|--------------| | FHA (3.5%) | $11,438 | Potentially $0 | | Conventional (5%) | $16,340 | Significantly reduced | | Conventional (20%) | $65,360 | Reduced by DPA amount | ## Conclusion Don't let down payment concerns keep you from homeownership. Delaware's DPA programs have helped thousands of first-time buyers achieve their dream. Contact DSHA today to learn which programs you qualify for. Use our [Delaware Mortgage Calculator](/mortgage-calculator/delaware) to see how DPA affects your monthly payment. --- *Source: Delaware State Housing Authority. Program details subject to change. Contact DSHA for current requirements.*