Down Payment Assistance Programs

$40K+ Available in Avondale, Buckeye, Goodyear, Surprise & More

A comprehensive guide to down payment assistance programs in Arizona, specifically targeting cities like Avondale, Buckeye, Goodyear, and Surprise. This guide details various financial aid options such as HOME Plus, Home in Five, and the Arizona is Home program, offering up to $40,000 for eligible first-time and repeat homebuyers. Learn about income limits, city-specific requirements, and application steps to make homeownership more affordable.

Complete Guide to State & City Programs in Avondale, Buckeye, Goodyear, Litchfield Park, Surprise, Tolleson, and Waddell

Unlock your path to homeownership with Arizona's comprehensive down payment assistance programs. From statewide initiatives offering up to $20,000 to Avondale's generous $40,000 shared equity program, discover the financial assistance available to make your dream home a reality in the West Valley.

Statewide Programs City Programs Eligibility Get Pre-Qualified

Why Arizona Has the Best DPA Programs in the Nation

Arizona offers one of the most comprehensive down payment assistance ecosystems in the United States, with multiple state-run programs, city-specific initiatives, and nonprofit partnerships working together to make homeownership accessible. From the comprehensive HOME Plus program offering 4% assistance to the generous Avondale Shared Equity program providing up to $40,000, Arizona homebuyers have access to unparalleled financial support that eliminates the down payment barrier.

Beautiful Arizona home with desert landscaping and mountain backdrop

Arizona Advantage

Why Arizona Leads the Nation in Down Payment Assistance

Multiple State Programs: HOME Plus, Home in Five, Arizona is Home, and Pathway to Purchase all running simultaneously
Generous City Programs: Avondale offers up to $40,000 in shared equity assistance - one of the highest in the country
Wide Eligibility: Most programs serve both first-time and repeat buyers, expanding access beyond traditional restrictions
Flexible Assistance: Funds can be used for down payment, closing costs, or principal reduction depending on the program
Geographic Coverage: All seven target cities participate in statewide programs with additional local options
Forgivable Structure: Most programs forgive assistance after 3-5 years of occupancy - you may never pay it back
No Income Limits: Some programs like Chenoa Fund have no income restrictions, making them accessible to middle-income buyers

💡 Key Insight: Arizona's down payment assistance programs are designed to work with conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA loans. Most programs are structured as forgivable second mortgages, meaning you could receive thousands in assistance that you never have to pay back if you stay in the home for the required period (typically 3-5 years). This isn't a loan you repay monthly - it's assistance that disappears over time while you build equity.

Statewide Arizona Down Payment Assistance Programs

Available in All Seven Target Cities: Avondale, Buckeye, Goodyear, Litchfield Park, Surprise, Tolleson, and Waddell

🏠 HOME Plus Program

Statewide 4% Down Payment Assistance

The Arizona Industrial Development Authority's HOME Plus program is Arizona's flagship down payment assistance initiative, available in all counties and cities statewide. This is the most widely-used program with the broadest eligibility and acceptance among lenders.

Maximum Assistance: 4% of loan amount (average $11,000 per buyer)
Income Limit: $136,609 annual household income maximum
Credit Score: 640+ minimum FICO score required
Program Type: Forgivable second mortgage after 3 years of occupancy
Loan Types: Works with FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional loans
First-Time Buyer: Not required - repeat buyers eligible
Education: 8-hour homebuyer course required before closing

🤝 Home in Five Advantage

Maricopa County Up to 5% Assistance

Available exclusively in Maricopa County (all your target cities), this program has helped over 25,000 homebuyers purchase homes since 2012, providing $196 million in down payment assistance. The program partners with 125+ trained lenders throughout the Phoenix metro area.

Maximum Assistance: Up to 5% down payment and closing cost assistance
Income Limit: $153,440 annual household income maximum
Credit Score: 640+ minimum FICO score required
Debt-to-Income: Up to 50% DTI ratio allowed
Location: All of Maricopa County (all seven target cities)
Occupancy: Must occupy within 60 days of closing
First-Time Buyer: Not required - program open to all buyers

🌵 Arizona is Home Program

First-Time Buyer Assistance 3-7%

Designed specifically for first-time homebuyers in Maricopa and Pima counties, this program offers higher assistance percentages than most other state programs. The assistance is provided as a silent second mortgage that forgives after 5 years of continuous occupancy.

Maximum Assistance: 3% to 7% of home purchase price
Income Limit: 120% of Area Median Income (AMI)
Target: First-time homebuyers only (no home ownership in 3 years)
Forgiveness: Full forgiveness after 5 years of occupancy
Max Amount: Up to $9,000 in Maricopa County
Loan Structure: Silent second mortgage - no monthly payments
Counties: Maricopa and Pima counties

🎯 Pathway to Purchase

Targeted 17-City Program Up to $20,000

This targeted program specifically serves 17 Arizona cities including Buckeye, providing significant down payment assistance through a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage combined with forgivable second mortgage assistance. The program was designed to help communities recovering from the housing crisis.

Maximum Assistance: Up to $20,000 for down payment/closing costs
Eligible Cities: Buckeye among 17 cities (see full list below)
Loan Structure: 30-year fixed-rate first mortgage
Assistance Type: Second mortgage for down payment assistance
Use: Down payment, closing costs, or combination
Target: Generally for first-time buyers
Processing: Administered by e-HousingPlus

💰 Chenoa Fund

FHA Loan Down Payment Support

CBC Mortgage Agency's Chenoa Fund provides down payment assistance specifically for FHA loans, with unique advantages including no income limits. This program is ideal for buyers who don't qualify for other programs due to income restrictions but still need down payment help.

Maximum Assistance: 3.5% or 5% of home purchase price or appraised value (whichever is lower)
Loan Type: FHA loans only (FHA-insured mortgages)
Income Limits: NONE - no household income restrictions
Credit Score: FHA minimum requirements apply (typically 580+)
Repayment: Repaid through monthly mortgage payments
Availability: Statewide throughout Arizona
Unique Benefit: Only major program without income caps

🏘️ Home in Five Platinum

Enhanced Maricopa County Program

An enhanced version of Home in Five with slightly different terms and benefits, also serving Maricopa County. This program provides flexibility and additional options for qualified homebuyers throughout the Phoenix metro area.

Maximum Assistance: 4% down payment assistance provided as grant
Income Requirements: Similar to Home in Five Advantage
Credit Requirements: 640+ minimum FICO score
Location: Maricopa County (excluding Paradise Valley)
Property Types: Single-family, condos, townhouses
Documentation: Officially recognized by cities like Tolleson
Lenders: 125+ participating lenders available

Pathway to Purchase

Eligible Cities for Pathway to Purchase Program

The Pathway to Purchase program is limited to these 17 Arizona cities:

Your Target City: Buckeye
Arizona City, Avondale, Casa Grande, Coolidge, Douglas, El Mirage
Fort Mohave, Goodyear, Kingman, Lake Havasu City, Marana
Nogales, Somerton, Surprise, Tucson, Yuma

View City-Specific Programs Check Eligibility Requirements Get Pre-Qualified Now

City-Specific Down Payment Assistance Programs

Each city offers unique programs in addition to statewide options. Discover what's available in your target city.

Avondale, AZ

🏆 Arizona's Most Generous City Program - Up to $40,000

Avondale First-Time Homebuyer Program

Avondale offers the most generous down payment assistance program in the entire state of Arizona through a shared equity loan administered by Trellis, a local housing and community development nonprofit. This program can provide up to $40,000 in assistance - nearly double what most other programs offer - making it exceptional for buyers who need substantial help with their down payment.

Maximum Assistance: Up to $40,000 in down payment, closing costs, and/or principal reduction
Assistance Type: Shared equity loan (you share home appreciation with the city)
How It Works: City provides lump sum at closing; you repay percentage of appreciation when you sell
Repayment Calculation: Assistance amount percentage vs. initial purchase price determines repayment
First-Time Buyer: Must not have owned home in past 3 years
Exception: Divorced/separated single parents and stay-at-home caregivers exempt from 3-year rule
First Mortgage: Must obtain first mortgage from private lender
Education Required: 8-hour homebuyer counseling class mandatory
Secured By: Deed of Trust, Promissory Note, and Homebuyer Agreement
Need-Based: Total assistance amount determined by individual need

To Apply: Contact Trellis at 623-932-3565. Trellis administers the program and assists income-qualified households throughout the entire process.

Buckeye, AZ

🎯 Pathway to Purchase Eligible City

Statewide Programs with Pathway to Purchase Access

Buckeye residents have access to all major statewide programs, with special eligibility for the Pathway to Purchase program which specifically targets Buckeye among only 17 Arizona cities. This makes Buckeye buyers eligible for more assistance options than most Arizona cities, combining broad statewide access with targeted local eligibility.

Pathway to Purchase: Up to $20,000 assistance (Buckeye is specifically listed)
HOME Plus: 4% statewide assistance with 640+ credit score
Home in Five: Up to 5% assistance in Maricopa County
Arizona is Home: 3-7% for first-time buyers in Maricopa County
Chenoa Fund: 3.5-5% for FHA loans with no income limits
Advantage: Multiple program options provide flexibility based on your situation
Smart Growth City: Buckeye is one of fastest-growing cities in America

Why Buckeye: Being eligible for Pathway to Purchase in addition to all statewide programs gives Buckeye buyers exceptional flexibility and potentially higher assistance amounts than neighboring cities.

Goodyear, AZ

🏡 Full State Program Access

Complete DPA Program Portfolio Available

Goodyear residents have full access to Arizona's comprehensive statewide down payment assistance programs. The city's location in Maricopa County ensures eligibility for all major state initiatives, and local lenders are highly experienced with all program types, ensuring smooth processing and competitive terms.

HOME Plus: Up to 4% assistance with statewide availability and $136,609 income limit
Home in Five: Up to 5% assistance with Maricopa County $153,440 income limit
Arizona is Home: 3-7% for qualifying first-time buyers meeting AMI requirements
Chenoa Fund: 3.5-5% for FHA buyers with no income restrictions
Local Lender Expertise: Goodyear lenders very experienced with all program types
Home Price Range: City's housing market suits all assistance program ranges
Strong Market: Active participation in all state programs

Goodyear Advantage: While Goodyear doesn't have a city-specific program, the strong participation in all state programs and experienced lending community make assistance readily accessible.

Litchfield Park, AZ

🏘️ Home in Five Featured Success City

Featured City with Proven Track Record

Litchfield Park is specifically featured in Home in Five program marketing materials as a success story location, demonstrating strong program participation, high approval rates, and satisfied homebuyers. The program features testimonials from actual Litchfield Park residents who successfully used the assistance to purchase their homes.

Program Highlight: Featured prominently in Home in Five Advantage marketing
Success Story: Real testimonial from Edgar, Litchfield Park homebuyer
Edgar's Quote: "The entire process was very smooth and easy. I think everyone should take advantage of this!"
High Success Rate: Strong approval rates for qualified Litchfield Park buyers
Home Values: Price range perfectly compatible with assistance amounts
Local Support: Experienced lenders familiar with all programs
Established Community: Long-standing program participation and acceptance
All Programs: Access to HOME Plus, Arizona is Home, and Chenoa Fund

Why Featured: Being highlighted in official program materials demonstrates Litchfield Park's strong success with down payment assistance programs and supportive lending environment.

Surprise, AZ

🎪 City-Promoted DPA Programs

Official City Support and Promotion

The City of Surprise actively promotes down payment assistance programs through its official website and housing department, demonstrating strong municipal support for homeownership assistance. The city specifically highlights the HOME Plus program and provides direct links to program information, showing commitment to helping residents access assistance.

City Promotion: Surprise officially promotes HOME Plus on city website (surpriseaz.gov)
Official Statement: City declares HOME Plus "the only state-run, statewide program"
Municipal Support: Housing department provides program information to residents
Home in Five: Full participation with 125+ participating lenders
Program Awareness: City helps residents understand available assistance
Local Support: Experienced lending community familiar with all programs
Success Track Record: Strong history of program usage and approvals
All Programs: Complete access to state assistance portfolio

Municipal Advantage: Active city promotion means better awareness, easier access to information, and stronger community support for using assistance programs.

Tolleson, AZ

📋 Home in Five Platinum Documented Participation

Official Program Documentation and City Support

Tolleson officially documents participation in the Home in Five Platinum program through city-published materials available on the official Tolleson website. This formal documentation demonstrates the city's recognition and support of down payment assistance programs for its residents.

Official Documentation: Home in Five Platinum documented in city PDF materials
City Website: Program information available on tolleson.az.gov
Program Details: City provides specific eligibility and program information
Municipal Recognition: Formal acknowledgment shows city support
Eligibility: Standard Home in Five criteria apply to Tolleson residents
Assistance Amount: Up to 5% down payment and closing cost assistance
Credit Requirements: 640+ FICO score with standard program terms
All Programs: Full access to HOME Plus, Arizona is Home, Chenoa Fund

Documentation Benefit: Official city documentation makes it easier for residents to understand program eligibility and provides credibility when working with lenders.

Waddell, AZ

🌾 Full Program Access in Maricopa County

Complete State Program Portfolio Available

As an unincorporated community within Maricopa County, Waddell residents have full access to all Arizona state down payment assistance programs. The area's location ensures eligibility for all Maricopa County programs including Home in Five, while maintaining access to statewide initiatives like HOME Plus.

Maricopa County: Full eligibility for county-specific programs
State Programs: Complete access to all statewide assistance options
Home in Five: Up to 5% assistance available in Maricopa County
HOME Plus: Statewide 4% program fully accessible
Arizona is Home: 3-7% for first-time buyers in Maricopa County
Chenoa Fund: No income limit option for FHA buyers
Property Types: Single-family homes, townhomes, and condos eligible
Assistance Range: 3-7% depending on program selection and eligibility

Waddell Advantage: Being in Maricopa County provides access to the full range of programs that have helped over 25,000 Phoenix metro area residents become homeowners.

Complete Eligibility Requirements by Program

Understand the qualifying criteria for each down payment assistance program to determine which options you're eligible for.

Program	Income Limit	Credit Score	First-Time Buyer	Max Assistance	Forgiveness Period
HOME Plus	$136,609 household	640+ minimum	No	4% of loan amount	3 years occupancy
Home in Five Advantage	$153,440 household	640+ minimum	No	Up to 5%	Program specific
Home in Five Platinum	$153,440 household	640+ minimum	No	4% as grant	Program specific
Arizona is Home	120% of AMI	Lender specific	Yes (3-year rule)	3-7% of price	5 years occupancy
Pathway to Purchase	Program specific	Program specific	Usually required	Up to $20,000	Program specific
Chenoa Fund	No income limit	FHA minimum (580+)	No	3.5% or 5%	Repaid via mortgage
Avondale City Program	Need-based	Lender requirements	Yes (3-year rule)	Up to $40,000	Share appreciation

Credit Score Details

Credit Score Requirements Explained

640+ Required: HOME Plus, Home in Five programs require minimum 640 FICO score
FHA Minimum: Chenoa Fund follows FHA guidelines (typically 580+ with 3.5% down, 500-579 with 10% down)
Higher Scores = Better Terms: Scores above 680 may qualify for better interest rates and terms
Compensating Factors: Some programs allow scores as low as 620 with strong compensating factors
Check All Three: Lenders use your middle score from Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax
Improve Before Applying: Even 20-30 point improvement can make difference in approval

Income Requirements

Understanding Income Limits and Calculations

Household Income: All borrowers on the loan plus any adult household members' income
Calculation Method: Lenders use specific qualifying income formulas that may differ from gross income
Area Median Income (AMI): Some programs base limits on percentage of county AMI
No Income Limit Option: Chenoa Fund is the only major program with NO income restrictions
Verification Required: Must provide pay stubs, W-2s, tax returns, and employment verification
Self-Employed: Additional documentation required (2 years tax returns, profit/loss statements)
Multiple Income Sources: Include all wages, bonuses, commissions, alimony, child support, etc.

Education Requirements

📚 Mandatory Homebuyer Education Courses

Most Arizona down payment assistance programs require completion of an approved homebuyer education course before closing. Here's what you need to know:

HOME Plus: 8-hour AZ-based HUD-approved housing counseling course required
Home in Five: 8-hour homebuyer education through approved agency required
Arizona is Home: Course requirements vary by lender but typically required
Avondale City: 8-hour homebuyer counseling class through Trellis mandatory
Course Topics: Budgeting, financing, home maintenance, foreclosure prevention, legal rights
Approved Agencies: Must be Arizona-based HUD-approved housing counseling agency
Online Options: Some programs accept limited online courses - verify first with your lender
Certificate: You'll receive completion certificate to submit to your lender
Timing: Complete early to avoid delays - most take 8 hours over 1-2 days
Cost: Usually free or low-cost ($25-75) through approved agencies

💡 Pro Tip: Many buyers qualify for multiple programs simultaneously. For example, you might be eligible for HOME Plus, Home in Five, AND Arizona is Home depending on your situation. Work with a DPA-experienced lender to identify which program gives you the best combination of assistance amount, terms, and forgiveness period for your specific circumstances.

How Arizona Down Payment Assistance Works

Understanding the mechanics of down payment assistance helps you maximize your benefits and avoid common pitfalls. Arizona programs use different structures - from forgivable second mortgages to shared equity loans - each with unique advantages, requirements, and long-term implications for your homeownership journey.

Happy Arizona family receiving keys to new home with down payment assistance

💳 Forgivable Second Mortgage

HOME Plus, Home in Five, Arizona is Home

Most Arizona programs use forgivable second mortgages that gradually eliminate your obligation over time. You receive a second mortgage for the assistance amount, but it forgives after you meet occupancy requirements - meaning you may never have to pay it back.

At Closing: Second mortgage placed on property for assistance amount
Monthly Payments: Usually $0 - no monthly payment on the second mortgage
Forgiveness: After 3-5 years of continuous occupancy (varies by program)
Interest: Typically 0% or below-market rates during forgiveness period
Early Sale: Must repay if sold before forgiveness period completes
Refinancing: Some programs allow refinancing; others require repayment
Final Result: After forgiveness period, assistance essentially becomes a grant

🤝 Shared Equity Loan

Avondale City Program

Avondale's unique program uses shared equity where the city shares in your home's appreciation when you sell or refinance. This structure allows for much higher assistance amounts ($40,000) because the city participates in the home's value growth.

At Closing: City provides lump sum payment up to $40,000
Monthly Payments: $0 - no monthly payments during ownership
Equity Share: City owns percentage based on assistance vs. purchase price
Upon Sale: Repay assistance percentage of home's appreciated value
Example: $40K on $400K home = 10% equity share at sale
Appreciation Benefit: If home doesn't appreciate, less repayment owed
Long-Term Hold: Works well if you plan to stay many years

🏦 Grant Programs

Some Home in Five Options

True grant programs provide assistance that never requires repayment, though these are less common in Arizona. Home in Five Platinum offers 4% as a grant, making it unique among Arizona programs.

At Closing: One-time grant payment at closing
Repayment: Never required - true grant money
Restrictions: Must maintain occupancy and use as primary residence
Tax Impact: May be considered taxable income - consult tax advisor
Availability: Limited compared to forgivable loan programs
Best For: Buyers who may need to sell or move within 5 years
Example: Home in Five Platinum 4% grant option

📊 Repayment-Required DPA

Chenoa Fund

Some programs like Chenoa Fund structure assistance as a loan that's repaid through your monthly mortgage payment. While this means ongoing payments, it offers benefits like no income limits and immediate availability.

At Closing: Separate DPA loan for down payment needs
Monthly Payments: Repaid through regular monthly mortgage payments
Term: Often tied to your primary mortgage term (30 years)
Interest Rate: Varies but often competitive rates
Repayment: Due upon sale, refinance, or loan payoff
Benefit: No income limits makes it accessible to more buyers
FHA Specific: Works specifically with FHA-insured mortgages

⚠️ Critical: Understand Your Repayment Obligations

Before accepting any assistance, thoroughly understand the repayment terms and occupancy requirements. Most Arizona programs require you to occupy the home as your primary residence for 3-5 years. If you sell, refinance (cash-out), or stop living in the home before the forgiveness period, you may owe full repayment of the assistance plus any accrued interest. Some programs also require repayment if you rent the property or convert it to investment use. Avondale's shared equity program requires repayment based on home appreciation upon any sale or transfer. Read all documents carefully and ask questions before signing.

Forgiveness Timeline

When Does Assistance Forgive?

HOME Plus: Full forgiveness after 3 years of continuous occupancy as primary residence
Home in Five: Forgiveness terms vary by specific program option selected
Arizona is Home: Complete forgiveness after 5 years of primary residence occupancy
Pathway to Purchase: Forgiveness timeline determined by program administrator
Avondale Shared Equity: Never fully forgives - percentage repayment always due at sale
Continuous Occupancy: Must live in home continuously - no extended absences
Primary Residence: Cannot rent, convert to investment property, or use as second home
Documentation: Keep proof of occupancy (utility bills, driver's license, voter registration)

Your Step-by-Step Application Process

Follow this proven roadmap to maximize your chances of qualifying for Arizona down payment assistance and successfully closing on your home.

Step 1

🎯 Determine Your Eligibility

Before starting applications, identify which programs you qualify for based on income, credit score, location, and first-time buyer status. Most buyers qualify for 3-5 different programs simultaneously, giving you options to choose the best fit.

Check Credit Score: Pull your credit reports from all three bureaus (Experian, TransUnion, Equifax)
Calculate Household Income: Add up all income from all household members who will be on the loan
Review First-Time Buyer Status: Determine if you've owned a home in the past 3 years
Identify Your City: Confirm which programs are available in your target purchase location
Compare Income Limits: Match your household income against each program's maximum limits
List Multiple Options: Create a list of all programs you qualify for

Step 2

📚 Complete Required Education

Most programs require 8-hour homebuyer education courses through HUD-approved agencies. Complete this early to avoid delays later in your process. The course covers budgeting, financing, home maintenance, and your rights as a homebuyer.

Find Approved Agency: Locate HUD-approved housing counseling agency in Arizona
Schedule Class: Most courses offered in-person or hybrid format over 1-2 days
Budget for Cost: Typically $25-$75 for the course (some offered free)
Attend Full Course: Complete all 8 hours to receive certificate
Receive Certificate: Get your completion certificate to submit with application
Keep Copies: Make multiple copies of your certificate for your lender

Step 3

🏦 Find a DPA-Experienced Lender

Not all mortgage lenders work with down payment assistance programs. You need a lender experienced with the specific programs you want to use. Many programs maintain lists of approved participating lenders on their websites.

Check Program Lists: Visit program websites for lists of participating lenders
Ask About Experience: Confirm lender has closed loans with your target programs
Compare Multiple Lenders: Interview 2-3 lenders to compare rates and expertise
Verify Program Knowledge: Ask specific questions about program requirements
Check Reviews: Read reviews from other DPA borrowers
Get Pre-Qualified: Obtain pre-qualification to understand your buying power

Step 4

📄 Gather Required Documentation

Down payment assistance applications require extensive documentation to verify income, employment, assets, and eligibility. Start gathering these documents early to avoid delays when you're ready to apply.

Pay Stubs: Most recent 30 days of pay stubs from all jobs
W-2 Forms: Past 2 years W-2s from all employers
Tax Returns: Complete tax returns for past 2 years (all schedules)
Bank Statements: 2-3 months of statements for all accounts
Employment Verification: Letter from employer or HR contact information
Photo ID: Valid driver's license or state ID
Social Security Card: For all borrowers
Homebuyer Certificate: Your education course completion certificate
Self-Employed: Additional business documents (profit/loss, balance sheet, business tax returns)

Step 5

🏠 Get Pre-Approved and Start House Hunting

With your lender and documentation ready, get full pre-approval that specifically includes your down payment assistance. This makes you a stronger buyer and shows sellers you're serious and qualified.

Submit Full Application: Complete formal mortgage application with your lender
Include DPA Details: Ensure pre-approval letter mentions down payment assistance
Verify Approval Amount: Confirm your maximum loan amount including assistance
Understand Restrictions: Learn about any property type or price restrictions
Start House Hunting: Work with realtor experienced with DPA buyers
Stay Within Budget: Focus on homes within your approved price range

Step 6

📝 Make Offer and Navigate Underwriting

Once you find your home, make an offer and begin the formal mortgage and DPA underwriting process. Your lender will coordinate both the primary mortgage and down payment assistance approval simultaneously.

Submit Offer: Work with your realtor to submit competitive offer
Order Home Inspection: Get professional inspection during due diligence period
Formal DPA Application: Submit formal down payment assistance application
Provide Additional Documents: Respond quickly to underwriter requests
Order Appraisal: Home must appraise at or above purchase price
Review Disclosures: Carefully review all DPA program documents
Clear Conditions: Work to clear all underwriting conditions promptly

Step 7

🔑 Close on Your Home

At closing, you'll sign all mortgage documents including your down payment assistance agreements. The assistance funds will be disbursed at closing, reducing your required cash to close.

Final Walkthrough: Inspect property before closing to confirm condition
Review Closing Disclosure: Carefully review all numbers 3 days before closing
Verify DPA Amounts: Confirm assistance amount matches your approval
Bring Required Funds: Wire or bring cashier's check for your portion of closing costs
Sign Documents: Sign all mortgage and DPA program documents
Understand Obligations: Make sure you understand occupancy and repayment terms
Get Your Keys: Receive keys and celebrate your new home!

💡 Timeline Expectations: The complete process from pre-qualification to closing typically takes 60-90 days for buyers using down payment assistance. Plan ahead and start early if you have a specific target move-in date. The homebuyer education course alone can take 1-2 weeks to schedule and complete, and DPA underwriting adds extra time to the standard mortgage approval process.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't make large purchases or open new credit accounts during your application process. This includes buying cars, furniture, or even applying for new credit cards. Any change to your credit or debt can disqualify you from your approved assistance. Don't switch jobs unless absolutely necessary - income stability is crucial. Don't make large deposits into your bank accounts without documenting the source, as unexplained deposits raise red flags. Finally, don't skip the homebuyer education course or try to rush through it - the knowledge you gain is genuinely valuable for your homeownership journey.

Realty ONE Group Goodyear