Houston First-Time Homebuyers Program

What is Houston First-Time Homebuyers Program?

Houston First-Time Homebuyers Program is a forgivable loan for homebuyers in Houston, Texas.

• City of Houston Housing and Community Development Department (HCDD) forgivable loan program providing up to $30,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance. Loan is forgiven at 20% per year over 5 years of owner-occupancy with no repayment if the homeowner remains in the home. Exclusively for first-time homebuyers within City of Houston city limits. Fixed-rate mortgage required. Minimum $350 buyer contribution required.
• Up to $30,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance.
• Forgivable loan forgiven at 20% per year over 5 years of owner-occupancy.
• No repayment required after completing 5-year occupancy requirement.
• Fixed-rate first mortgage required.
• Minimum $350 borrower contribution required.
• Funding comes from Local Government.

How much assistance does it provide?

Houston First-Time Homebuyers Program offers up to $30,000 in assistance.

• The program asks buyers to contribute $350.
• Amounts are the program's published maximums, not an offer — the administering agency determines any individual award.

Do you have to pay it back?

Houston First-Time Homebuyers Program is a forgivable loan, so the balance is forgiven once the program's conditions are met.

• Repayment is triggered by Sale, No Longer Primary, and Transfer of Title.
• Forgiveness and repayment terms are set by the program and can change — confirm them on the official program page before applying.

Who qualifies?

Houston First-Time Homebuyers Program is open to first-time homebuyers and buyers who will live in the home as their primary residence.

What are the income limits?

Houston First-Time Homebuyers Program limits household income to 80% of the area median income, which varies by county and household size.

• Area median income figures are published by HUD and updated annually, so check the current table for the county before relying on a number.

What kind of home can it be used for?

Houston First-Time Homebuyers Program can be used for Single Family, Condo, Townhouse, and New Construction.

• New construction is eligible.

Where does it apply?

Houston First-Time Homebuyers Program serves buyers purchasing in Houston, Texas.

How do you apply?

Applications for Houston First-Time Homebuyers Program go through the administering agency, which publishes the current terms and the application steps on its own site.

1. 1

   Take a homebuyer education course

   Required by the program before funds are reserved.

2. 2

   Contact the administering agency to reserve funds

   Funds are reserved with the provider and are subject to availability.

3. 3

   Work with a lender who handles the program

   Hey Prescott is not a lender and does not accept applications; this page describes the program so a buyer can take it to a lender or housing counselor.