Down Payment Assistance in Texas. Real Money. Real Help. Really Available.
Multiple programs exist in Texas to help buyers cover their down payment and closing costs. Grants you never repay, forgivable loans that disappear after three years, and city programs on top. Kris knows them all.
Down payment assistance (DPA) programs provide funds to help homebuyers cover their down payment and closing costs. In Texas, several programs exist at the state, city, and county level, ranging from outright grants that never need to be repaid to forgivable second liens that disappear after you remain in the home for a set period. For many Texas buyers, DPA is the difference between renting and owning.
As a participating lender in TSAHC programs and other Texas DPA initiatives, Kris Syevens at Aravian Financial can layer these programs on top of your primary mortgage. One application, one closing, and significantly less cash out of pocket. The most well-known Texas DPA programs include TSAHC Homes for Texas Heroes, TSAHC Home Sweet Texas, HAT (Homeownership Across Texas), and various city and county programs in Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio. Visit our dedicated TSAHC program page for full details on those specific programs.
Who Qualifies for DPA in Texas?
Credit score of 620 or higher (varies by program)
Meet income limits for the specific program and county
Primary residence only for most programs
Complete required homebuyer education course
First-time buyers, repeat buyers, and veterans depending on program
Property must be within eligible price limits for the program
Pros and Cons
Advantages
Reduce or eliminate out-of-pocket down payment
Grant options never need to be repaid
Forgivable loans disappear after 3 years in most programs
Works with FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional loans
Can be stacked with city and county programs in some cases
MCC tax credit can be added for additional annual savings
Things to Consider
Interest rate on first mortgage slightly higher than market (rate funds the DPA)
Income and purchase price limits apply
Must remain in home or repay forgivable loan within forgiveness period
Not available for investment properties or second homes
Program availability and funding can change
Frequently Asked Questions
Texas has several programs including TSAHC Homes for Texas Heroes (for teachers, first responders, veterans, and healthcare workers), TSAHC Home Sweet Texas (for all eligible buyers), HAT (Homeownership Across Texas), and city programs in Houston (HHF), Dallas (DHAP), Austin, and San Antonio. Programs offer grants or forgivable second liens covering 2-5% of the loan amount. Kris can identify which programs you qualify for based on your location, profession, and income.
Not always. TSAHC programs are available to both first-time and repeat buyers who meet income requirements. The Heroes program specifically is available to eligible professionals regardless of whether they have owned a home before. Some city programs are restricted to first-time buyers, while others are open to all qualifying buyers.
It depends on the type. A grant does not need to be repaid under any circumstances. A forgivable second lien (like TSAHC offers) is forgiven in full after 3 years, but must be repaid in full if you sell, refinance, or transfer the home within that period. Deferred second liens accrue no interest and have no monthly payments, but are due upon sale or refinance.
Yes. Most Texas DPA programs work alongside FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional loans. Your base loan type is determined by your credit profile, property, and goals. The DPA is layered on top at closing.
Most Texas DPA programs offer 2-5% of the first mortgage loan amount. On a $300,000 home with a $300,000 loan, that is $6,000 to $15,000 in assistance. Some city programs go higher. Kris can show you all programs you qualify for and their exact assistance amounts.
Income limits vary by program, county, and household size. TSAHC limits for most Texas counties in 2026 are approximately $108,540 for 1-2 person households and $126,630 for households of 3 or more. Some counties have higher limits. Kris checks the current limits for your specific county.
