Down Payment Assistance Programs in Georgia (2026 Guide)

# Down Payment Assistance Programs in Georgia (2026 Guide) Saving for a down payment is one of the biggest hurdles for first-time home buyers. Fortunately, Georgia offers 2 assistance programs that can help you achieve homeownership sooner than you thought possible. ## Georgia Housing Agency All state DPA programs are administered by Georgia Housing and Finance Authority (GHFA). **Contact Information:** - Website: [https://www.dca.ga.gov/safe-affordable-housing/homeownership](https://www.dca.ga.gov/safe-affordable-housing/homeownership) - Phone: 404-679-4840 ## Available Programs Georgia offers 2 major down payment assistance programs: ### Georgia Dream Homeownership Program | Feature | Details | |---------|---------| | Maximum Assistance | Up to $10,000 | | Program Type | Second Mortgage | | Description | 0% interest, deferred second mortgage. Below-market first mortgage rates. | ### Georgia Dream PEN DPA | Feature | Details | |---------|---------| | Maximum Assistance | Up to $12,500 | | Program Type | Forgivable Loan | | Description | For public protectors, educators, and healthcare workers. Higher assistance amounts. | ## 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 GHFA 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 GHFA 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 GHFA 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 Georgia's median home price of $272,900: | Scenario | Down Payment Needed | With Max DPA | |----------|--------------------|--------------| | FHA (3.5%) | $9,552 | Potentially $0 | | Conventional (5%) | $13,645 | Significantly reduced | | Conventional (20%) | $54,580 | Reduced by DPA amount | ## Conclusion Don't let down payment concerns keep you from homeownership. Georgia's DPA programs have helped thousands of first-time buyers achieve their dream. Contact GHFA today to learn which programs you qualify for. Use our [Georgia Mortgage Calculator](/mortgage-calculator/georgia) to see how DPA affects your monthly payment. --- *Source: Georgia Housing and Finance Authority. Program details subject to change. Contact GHFA for current requirements.*