Arizona Down Payment Assistance
Programs
What They Are, How They Work, and Who Qualifies
Updated for 2026 program guidelines and eligibility requirements.
Arizona down payment assistance programs help eligible home buyers reduce the upfront costs of purchasing a home by providing financial assistance toward the down payment and, in many cases, closing costs. These programs are available throughout Arizona and are offered through state housing agencies, local governments, and approved nonprofit or lending partners. Assistance may be provided as a grant, a forgivable loan, or a low-interest second mortgage depending on the program.
Arizona down payment assistance is designed to make homeownership more accessible by lowering the amount of cash buyers need to bring to closing. Eligibility and program benefits can vary based on income, purchase price, loan type, and location within the state, which is why buyers often review multiple programs and related Arizona home buyer assistance resources when planning a home purchase.
This page provides a statewide overview of Arizona down payment assistance programs to help home buyers understand their options before exploring county-specific programs.
This content is reviewed for accuracy by licensed Arizona mortgage professionals and is intended for educational purposes only. Information reflects current Arizona down payment assistance program guidelines and general eligibility requirements as of 2026. Program terms, availability, and qualification criteria may change and can vary based on individual circumstances and property location.
What is Arizona Down Payment Assistance?
Arizona down payment assistance refers to a group of programs that provide financial help to qualified home buyers purchasing a primary residence in Arizona. These programs are commonly used by first-time home buyers, but many are also available to repeat buyers who meet program guidelines.
Down payment assistance in Arizona may be structured in several ways. Some programs offer grants that do not require repayment. Others provide forgivable loans that are forgiven after the buyer lives in the home for a required period of time. Some programs use repayable second mortgages with low interest rates or deferred payments that are paid back when the home is sold or refinanced.
Because no single program fits every buyer, Arizona home buyers are often evaluated for multiple down payment assistance programs to determine which options best match their situation.
How Down Payment Assistance Works in Arizona
Arizona down payment assistance works by supplementing a buyer’s primary mortgage with additional funds that reduce the amount of money required at closing. It is layered alongside a traditional mortgage to help make homeownership more affordable.
In most cases:
- Buyers apply for assistance through an approved mortgage lender
- The assistance is paired with a primary mortgage such as an FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional loan
- Funds may be used for the down payment, closing costs, or both
- Some programs do not require monthly payments, while others are repaid when the home is sold or refinanced
Each Arizona down payment assistance program has its own eligibility rules, repayment structure, and usage guidelines. Buyers who want a clearer understanding of how assistance fits into the mortgage loan process in Arizona can review the full step-by-step process from application to closing.
Who Typically Qualifies for Down Payment Assistance in Arizona?
Eligibility for Arizona down payment assistance is based on a combination of factors rather than a single requirement. While guidelines vary by program, many buyers qualify if they meet general criteria such as:
- Household income within program limits
- Purchase of the home as a primary residence
- Meeting minimum credit requirements
- Staying within program purchase price limits
- Completing home buyer education if required
Some Arizona down payment assistance programs are limited to first-time home buyers, while others allow repeat buyers to qualify. In most cases, a first-time home buyer is defined as someone who has not owned a home in the past three years. Buyers who are unsure whether they qualify as a first-time buyer can review available first-time home buyer programs in Arizona for a clearer breakdown of eligibility and program options.
Popular Arizona Down Payment Assistance Programs
Arizona offers several well-known down payment assistance programs that are commonly used by home buyers across the state. These programs can differ in availability, assistance amount, repayment structure, and eligibility requirements. Some options are offered as home loan grants in Arizona, while others are structured as forgivable or repayable down payment assistance second mortgages, which is why comparing programs side by side is helpful.
| Program Name | County Served | Minimum Credit Score | Maximum Income Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Home Plus | All Counties | 640 | 146,503 |
| Home in Five | Maricopa | 640 | 153,440 |
| Pima Tucson Homebuyer’s Solution | Pima | 640 | 146,503 |
The following are some of the most commonly used Arizona down payment assistance programs. Program availability, income limits, and assistance amounts may vary by county and city.
Home Plus Mortgage Program
The Arizona Home Plus Mortgage Program has been updated to offer a greater variety of opportunities for Arizona home buyers who need down payment assistance. These expanded options include multiple down payment assistance amounts, higher maximum loan limits, updated qualifying criteria, and increased household income thresholds. Because income eligibility plays a significant role in determining qualification, buyers should review the current Home Plus income limits before exploring specific loan options.
The Arizona Home Plus home loan program is popular because the funds have been consistently available in recent program cycles. As such, many people in Arizona have been able to achieve the pride, stability, freedom and wealth that accompanies home ownership. The assistance program is structured as a five-year, no interest, no payment, soft second mortgage, forgiven monthly at a rate of 1/60 over the term of the lien. Once again, the lien is completely forgiven after you stay in the home for five years without refinancing. This type of lien is sometimes referred to as a silent second mortgage because you do not have to pay interest or make payments. Money from the Home Plus assistance is combined with government-sponsored mortgage programs and can be used for down payment and/or closing costs equal to as much as 5% of the mortgage loan.
Program Highlights:
- There isn’t a minimum amount that you have to provide to close. The down payment assistance can potentially cover all of your down payment and closing costs.
- No first time home buyer requirement for most programs.
- The assistance money received is a silent second that has no interest, no payment and is forgiven monthly over the first five years of home ownership. The lien is completely forgiven after you stay in the home for five years without refinancing. The purpose of the silent second is to provide stability and ensure the ongoing success of the Home Plus Assistance Program in Arizona.
- Qualified members of the U.S. military (active and Veterans) are eligible for an additional 1% of down payment assistance.
- The money continues to be consistently available.
How to Qualify:
- Maximum income of $146,503 for most programs. View current income limits for conventional HFA loans under 80% AMI.
- Maximum debt-to-income of 45% if FICO score is 640 and 50% if FICO score is 680 or above
- See various loan program requirements below
PROGRAM CONVENTIONAL LOAN PROGRAMS
Conventional loans with down payment assistance can be a great option because unlike some other loan programs, conventional loans allow home buyers to remove the private mortgage insurance (typically on loans with less than 20% down) down the road.
Fannie Mae HFA Preferred Loan Program
This program is derived from the Fannie Mae HomeReady program and is one of the Arizona conventional Home Plus loan programs offered. It is offered anywhere in Arizona.
Program Highlights:
- Down payment assistance options between 3% and 5%. You can choose what is best for you based on your loan scenario.
- Maximum debt-to-income of 45% if FICO score is 640 and 50% if FICO score is 680 or above
- If purchasing a manufactured home, the minimum FICO score is 660
- Maximum income of $146,503 if over 80% AMI. See maximum income limits for households below 80% AMI.
Freddie Mac HFA Advantage Loan Program
This program is derived from the Freddie Mac Home Possible Advantage program and is the other Arizona conventional Home Plus loan programs offered. It is offered anywhere in Arizona.
Program Highlights:
- Down payment assistance options between 3% and 5%. You can choose what is best for you based on your loan scenario.
- Minimum FICO score is 640 and 50% if FICO score is 680 or above
- If purchasing a manufactured home, the minimum FICO score is 660
- Maximum debt-to-income of 50%
- Maximum income of $146,503 if over 80% AMI. See maximum income limits for households below 80% AMI.
Freddie Mac HFA Advantage Loan Program
This program is derived from the Freddie Mac Home Possible Advantage program and is the other Arizona conventional Home Plus loan programs offered. It is offered anywhere in Arizona.
Program Highlights:
- Down payment assistance options between 3% and 5%
- Minimum FICO score is 640
- If purchasing a manufactured home, the minimum FICO score is 660
- Maximum debt-to-income of 50%
- See maximum income for households below 80% AMI.
PROGRAM GOVERNMENT LOAN PROGRAMS
Government loan programs with this programs down payment assistance can be a great option because they usually have easier qualifying requirements. The three common government loan programs are FHA, USDA and VA.
VA & USDA Loan Programs
VA and USDA loans are two popular government loan programs that offer 100% financing. Since there is no down payment requirement, the assistance money from the Home Plus program is instead used to cover closing costs. As such, you can buy your home with little to no money out of pocket. Home Plus VA and USDA Loan Programs are great Arizona zero down loan programs They are offered anywhere in Arizona.
Program Highlights:
- Down payment assistance of 2% to 5%
- Minimum FICO score is 640
- If purchasing a manufactured home, the minimum FICO score is 660
- Maximum debt-to-income of 45% if FICO score is 640 and 50% if FICO score is 680
- Maximum income, per program guidelines, of $146,503
- You must also meet the guidelines required to be approved for the VA or USDA loan
Program FHA Loan Program
FHA loans with down payment assistance in Arizona are popular because of their flexibility and other benefits. They still have many advantages that make them attractive to Arizona first time homebuyers. The Home Plus FHA loan program is offered anywhere in Arizona.
Program Highlights:
- Down payment assistance options of 2%, to 5%. You can choose what is best for you based on your loan scenario
- Minimum FICO score is 640
- If purchasing a manufactured home, the minimum FICO score is 660
- If using an FHA loan with Home Plus, the maximum loan amount depends on the FHA loan limits in your county
- Maximum debt-to-income of 45% if FICO score is 640 and 50% if FICO score is 680
- Maximum income of $146,503
Home in Five Advantage Program
This program is available only for homes purchased in Maricopa County, Arizona.
Buyers looking for location-specific eligibility and program details can review Maricopa County home buyer assistance to better understand how local guidelines apply.
If you are buying a house in Maricopa County and you need help with your down payment and closing costs, you should consider the Home In Five Advantage program. This program has been very popular and used by home buyers in Phoenix and other parts of Maricopa County for more than eight years.
Simply put, this is a great down payment assistance program.
Program Highlights:
- Assistance for down payment and/or closing offered up to 6%. An additional 1% is available to qualified Veterans, active duty Military, active Reservists, active National Guard, First Responders and Teachers.
- The assistance money is actually available. Many down payment assistance programs run out of funds within a short period of time.
- The Home in Five assistance money received is a silent second mortgage that has no interest, no payment, and is forgiven monthly over the first five years of home ownership. The lien is completely forgiven after you stay in the home for five years without refinancing. The purpose of the silent second is to provide stability and ensure the ongoing success of the Home in Five down payment assistance program in Arizona.
- You do not have to be a first time home buyer.
How to Qualify:
- Buy a house anywhere in Maricopa County, including in the City of Phoenix with no limit to purchase price outside of guidelines for the mortgage program you choose
- New or existing single family homes, 2 to 4 unit homes, condos, town homes and manufactured homes.
- Qualify for a FHA, VA, USDA, Fannie Mae HFA Preferred or Freddie Mac Advantage:
- Loan with a maximum debt-to-income ratio of 45% if FICO score is 640 and 680 if you are purchasing a manufactured home
- Minimum FICO score is 640
- If purchasing a manufactured home, the minimum FICO score is 660
- Income from all borrowers may not exceed $153,440
- Take a convenient homebuyer education course
PIMA TUCSON HOMEBUYER’S SOLUTION
The Pima Tucson Homebuyer’s Solution helps overcome barriers to homeownership for buyers purchasing a home in Tucson and throughout Pima County. Buyers who want detailed, location-specific information can explore Pima County down payment assistance programs to better understand local eligibility guidelines and assistance options.
The benefits of the Pima Tucson Homebuyer’s Solution are similar to those offered by statewide Arizona down payment assistance programs but are tailored specifically for homes located in Pima County, including the City of Tucson.
There is no purchase price limit to this program other than the maximum amounts of the loan program that you choose. For example, in 2026, the maximum FHA loan amount in Pima County is $498,257. Household income cannot exceed $146,503.
A Pima Tucson Homebuyer’s Solution loan is now offered through FHA, VA, USDA, Fannie Mae HFA Preferred and the Freddie Mac Advantage loan program.
Program Highlights:
- Down payment assistance options available between 0% and 4%. You can choose what is best for you based on your loan scenario.
- There is no first time homebuyer requirement.
- Down payment assistance money received through the Pima Tucson Homebuyer’s Solution is a silent second that has no interest, no payment, and is forgiven monthly over the first five years of home ownership. The lien is completely forgiven after you stay in the home for five years without refinancing. The purpose of the silent second is to provide stability and ensure the ongoing success of the down payment assistance program in Tucson and all of Pima County.
- The assistance money offered to help you buy a home in Tucson or other parts of Pima County has been consistently available and has continuous funding.
- There are 5-year and 30-year forgivable down payment assistance options.
How to Qualify:
- Qualify for a FHA, VA, USDA or conventional loan with a maximum debt-to-income ratio of 45% (some exceptions apply).
- Minimum FICO score is 640. Some of the different mortgage programs and down payment amount scenarios may require a higher score.
- Household income cannot exceed $146,503.
- Take a convenient homebuyer education course.
Other Arizona Down Payment Assistance Programs
Additional Arizona down payment assistance programs may be available through local housing authorities, municipalities, and nonprofit organizations. Program availability and guidelines can vary depending on the property location and buyer qualifications.
Down Payment Assistance by Arizona County
Arizona down payment assistance programs can vary by county and city. While many programs are available statewide, some eligibility requirements, income limits, and assistance amounts depend on where the home is located.
For county-specific eligibility and local program details, see the following guides:
This page serves as a statewide overview of Arizona down payment assistance programs, while the county guides provide local details.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arizona Down Payment Assistance
What down payment assistance programs are available in Arizona?
Arizona offers several down payment assistance programs through state housing agencies, local governments, and approved nonprofit or lending partners. These programs are designed to help eligible home buyers cover some or all of their required down payment and, in many cases, closing costs. Assistance may be provided as a grant, a forgivable loan, or a low-interest second mortgage. Program availability and benefits vary based on factors such as location, household income, loan type, and purchase price, which is why multiple programs are often reviewed together when buying a home in Arizona.
How does down payment assistance work in Arizona?
Down payment assistance in Arizona works by providing qualified home buyers with additional funds that reduce the amount of money they need to bring to closing. The assistance is typically paired with a primary mortgage, such as an FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional loan. Depending on the program, the assistance may not require monthly payments, may be forgiven after a certain period, or may be repaid when the home is sold or refinanced. Each program has its own rules regarding eligibility, repayment, and use of funds.
Who qualifies for down payment assistance in Arizona?
Eligibility for down payment assistance in Arizona is based on a combination of factors that often include household income, credit profile, purchase price, and occupancy of the home as a primary residence. Many programs are designed for low-to-moderate income buyers, but some are available to middle-income households as well. While some programs are limited to first-time home buyers, others are open to repeat buyers who meet the program guidelines. Eligibility requirements vary by program and location within Arizona.
Do I have to be a first-time home buyer to get down payment assistance in Arizona?
No, you do not always have to be a first-time home buyer to receive down payment assistance in Arizona. While some programs are restricted to first-time buyers, many Arizona down payment assistance programs allow repeat buyers to qualify. In most cases, a first-time home buyer is defined as someone who has not owned a home in the past three years. Program rules differ, so first-time buyer status is only one of several eligibility factors considered.
Is Arizona down payment assistance a grant or a loan?
Arizona down payment assistance can be offered as a grant, a forgivable loan, or a repayable second mortgage depending on the specific program. Grants and forgivable loans typically do not require repayment as long as the buyer meets certain conditions, such as living in the home for a required period of time. Repayable assistance usually comes in the form of a low-interest or deferred-payment second loan that is paid back when the home is sold or refinanced.
How much down payment assistance can I get in Arizona?
The amount of down payment assistance available in Arizona varies by program but is often calculated as a percentage of the home’s purchase price or as a fixed dollar amount. Some programs provide a few thousand dollars, while others may offer assistance equal to several percent of the purchase price. The exact amount depends on factors such as loan type, household income, property location, and program limits. Buyers are often evaluated for multiple programs to determine the maximum assistance available.
Are there income limits for Arizona down payment assistance programs?
Yes, most Arizona down payment assistance programs have income limits. These limits are typically based on household size and are set as a percentage of the area median income. Income limits vary by program and by location within Arizona, meaning a program available in one county may have different limits than the same program in another area. Some programs are designed for moderate-income households, while others are targeted toward lower-income buyers.
Can down payment assistance be used for closing costs in Arizona?
Many Arizona down payment assistance programs allow funds to be used for both down payment and closing costs. This can include expenses such as lender fees, title charges, escrow costs, and prepaid items. However, not all programs permit closing cost assistance, and some restrict how the funds may be applied. The specific use of funds is determined by the program guidelines and the type of mortgage being used.
Can I combine multiple down payment assistance programs in Arizona?
In some cases, Arizona home buyers may be able to combine more than one down payment assistance program, but this depends on the rules of each program involved. Some programs allow layering with other assistance sources, while others prohibit combining funds. Lenders typically review all available options to determine whether multiple programs can be used together while remaining compliant with program and loan guidelines.
How do I apply for down payment assistance in Arizona?
Down payment assistance in Arizona is typically applied for through an approved lender as part of the mortgage application process. Buyers usually complete a standard mortgage pre-approval, after which eligible down payment assistance programs are identified based on the buyer’s qualifications and the property being purchased. Some programs may also require home buyer education or additional documentation before final approval. Buyers typically begin by getting pre-approved through an approved lender. Those ready to start can get pre-approved for down payment assistance in Arizona here.
Ready to See Which Arizona Down Payment Assistance Programs You May Qualify For?
Eligibility for Arizona down payment assistance can vary based on income, location, loan type, and program guidelines. Speaking with an approved lender can help determine which programs may be available for your situation and how much assistance you may qualify to receive.
Eligibility requirements and available assistance vary by program and location.
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