Phoenix, Arizona · Updated July 2026

First-Time Homebuyer Grants in Phoenix, AZ

Phoenix-area first-time buyers may access up to $32,000+ in down payment assistance through state, city, and county programs — many with forgivable terms.

$32,000+
Max assistance available
6
Programs available
0%
Interest on most grants

Phoenix is one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., and first-time buyers here have access to some of the most generous down payment assistance programs in the country. Whether you’re buying in the city limits or the surrounding Maricopa County area, multiple programs can be stacked to reduce your out-of-pocket costs significantly.

Phoenix First-Time Homebuyer Grant Programs

Home in Five Advantage Program

Offers up to 5% of the loan amount (often $15,000–$20,000) as a forgivable grant for down payment and closing costs. Available on FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional 30-year fixed loans. No repayment required if you stay in the home for 3 years.

Forgivable Grant FHA / VA / USDA / Conv.
Up to 5%
of loan amount
Key requirements:
  • Income limit: $117,000 (standard) / $134,000 (military/teacher/first responder)
  • Minimum 640 credit score
  • Must be primary residence in Maricopa County
  • Complete a HUD-approved homebuyer education course

Home Plus AZ Program

Arizona’s statewide DPA program offers 3–5% of the loan amount as a 3-year forgivable second mortgage for down payment and closing costs. Available through participating lenders statewide, including the Phoenix metro area.

3-Year Forgivable Statewide Program
3–5%
of loan amount
Key requirements:
  • Income limit: $122,100
  • Minimum 640 credit score
  • Purchase price limit: $481,176 (FHA) / varies by loan type
  • Must use a participating Home Plus lender

City of Phoenix Open Doors Homeownership Program

A city-administered deferred loan providing up to $15,000 for down payment and closing costs for homes purchased within Phoenix city limits. The loan is forgiven after 5 years of owner-occupancy.

Deferred Loan City of Phoenix
$15,000
max assistance
Key requirements:
  • Income at or below 80% of Area Median Income (AMI)
  • Must purchase within Phoenix city limits
  • First-time homebuyer (no ownership in past 3 years)
  • Complete 8-hour homebuyer education course

Pathway to Purchase Down Payment Assistance

Provides a $20,000 grant (no repayment required) for purchases in targeted Phoenix-area zip codes. Designed to revitalize specific communities and make homeownership accessible in high-need neighborhoods.

True Grant — No Repayment Targeted Zip Codes
$20,000
true grant
Key requirements:
  • Must purchase in a Pathway to Purchase eligible zip code
  • Income limit: $92,160 (1-2 person) / $107,520 (3+ person)
  • Minimum 640 credit score
  • 30-year fixed FHA, VA, or USDA loan required

AZ Industrial Development Authority First Home Program

The AZ IDA First Home Program provides below-market interest rates combined with DPA options for first-time buyers across Arizona, including Phoenix. Reduced mortgage rates can save buyers tens of thousands over the life of the loan.

Below-Market Rate Statewide Program
Below-Market
interest rate
Key requirements:
  • First-time homebuyer (no ownership in past 3 years)
  • Income and purchase price limits apply by county
  • Must work with a participating AZ IDA lender
  • 30-year fixed mortgage required

Maricopa County HOME Investment Partnership Program

Maricopa County administers HUD HOME funds as deferred-payment loans for down payment and closing costs. Available to income-qualified buyers throughout unincorporated Maricopa County and participating municipalities.

HUD-Funded Maricopa County
Varies
by applicant need
Key requirements:
  • Income at or below 80% of Area Median Income (AMI)
  • Must purchase in Maricopa County jurisdiction
  • First-time buyer (no ownership in past 3 years)
  • Property must pass HUD housing quality standards inspection

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be a first-time homebuyer to qualify in Phoenix?
Most programs require that you have not owned a home in the past 3 years. Military veterans are often exempt from this requirement on programs like Home in Five.
Can I combine multiple programs in Phoenix?
Yes — stacking is common and encouraged. You can often combine Home in Five with Home Plus AZ, or stack the Pathway to Purchase grant with another program. A HUD-approved housing counselor can help identify the best combination.
Is homebuyer education required?
Yes, for most Phoenix-area DPA programs. You’ll need to complete a HUD-approved 8-hour homebuyer education course, available online through agencies like Framework or eHome America.
What credit score do I need?
Most Phoenix DPA programs require a minimum 640 credit score. If your score is below 640, consider credit repair before applying — even a small improvement can open additional programs.
How long does the process take?
Getting pre-qualified typically takes 1–3 business days. Closing timelines with DPA are similar to regular purchases — typically 30–45 days. Apply early as some programs like Pathway to Purchase can have wait times if funds are temporarily depleted.

Disclaimer: Program details, income limits, and availability change frequently. This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. Always verify current program details directly with the administering agency or a HUD-approved housing counselor before making decisions.

Ready to Find Your Phoenix Grant?

Connect with a HUD-approved lender who specializes in Phoenix DPA programs and can help you get pre-qualified today.

6 programs available · Up to $32,000+ in assistance