Program types
DPA isn't one thing.
It's a stack.
Most homebuyers leave money on the table because they apply for one program. Real DPA stacks two or three — a forgivable grant on top of a deferred second, plus a tax credit that pays out every year.
See which I qualify forProgram type · 1 of 5
Forgivable DPA grants
A forgivable grant is the most generous form of DPA: a state, city, or nonprofit gives you money toward your down payment + closing costs, and forgives the debt once you've lived in the home for a set period — typically 5 to 10 years.
Forgivable grants →Program type · 2 of 5
Deferred second mortgages
A deferred second mortgage is a soft second: a state or local agency lends you the down-payment money behind your first mortgage, often at 0% interest. You don't make a payment on it. The balance is due only when you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage.
Second mortgages →Program type · 3 of 5
Mortgage Credit Certificates
A Mortgage Credit Certificate is a federal income-tax credit issued by your state or local housing finance agency. Every year you pay mortgage interest, you take a percentage of that interest as a direct credit on your federal return — capped on most programs at $2,000/year.
MCC tax credits →Program type · 4 of 5
Employer DPA match
Employer DPA is one of the most underused benefits in housing. Hospitals, school districts, universities, large public employers, and some private companies contribute toward employees' down payments — directly, or as a match against city + state DPA.
Employer match →Program type · 5 of 5
Profession-specific DPA
Some DPA isn't about income or location — it's about profession. Teachers, nurses, first responders, military service members, and public servants get additional grants, lower interest rates, and reduced fees through programs gated by their job.
Profession-specific →