How to Use Down Payment Assistance in 2025 – What Buyers Need to Know

Think you need 20% down to buy a house? You don’t.
There are multiple down payment assistance (DPA) programs in Texas that can help first-time and even repeat buyers get into a home with far less money out of pocket.

If you're planning to buy a home in 2025, this post will walk you through what DPA is, who qualifies, and how I help clients use it to unlock their buying power.

💡 What Is Down Payment Assistance?

DPA programs offer:

• 💰 Grants (you don’t pay them back)

• 💳 Forgivable or low-interest loans (some are fully forgiven after a few years)

You can use them for your:

• Down payment

• Closing costs

• Some program fees

✅ Who Qualifies?

Most DPA programs require:

• A credit score of 620+

• You’re a first-time homebuyer (or haven’t owned in 3+ years)

• Completion of a homebuyer education course

• You meet income and purchase price limits

There are special programs for:

• Teachers & first responders

• Veterans

• Moderate-income families

• Buyers purchasing in targeted areas

🔑 How I Help

As a certified Houston REALTOR® with lender and nonprofit partners, I help buyers:

• Understand what they qualify for

• Connect with DPA-friendly lenders

• Structure offers that work within program guidelines

• Choose the right neighborhoods for your budget

You won’t have to figure it out on your own, I walk with you through the entire process.

💬 It’s Not Just for First-Timers

Did you know you might qualify as a "first-time buyer" if you haven’t owned in 3 years? Even if you’ve owned before, there may still be programs available.

✨ Ready to Explore Your Options?

Let’s see how much home you can really afford, and whether down payment help is available to you.

📅 Schedule a no-obligation buyer consultation here:
👉 https://bit.ly/ME-Housing-Benefit