Metro Atlanta Resources
Down Payment Assistance
Programs That Work.
Explore all available down payment assistance programs in Metro Atlanta and Georgia. See real savings with our calculator. Find the program that fits your situation.
What is Down Payment Assistance?
Down payment assistance (DPA) programs help qualified buyers cover the upfront costs of homeownership. These can include:
- Forgivable Loans: You don't have to pay back the funds if you stay in the home for a set period (typically 5-11 years).
- Grants: Free money you never have to repay, sometimes combined with other assistance types.
- Deferred Mortgages: A second mortgage at 0% interest that you repay only when you sell, refinance, or move.
Real money from real programs. Over $500,000 in DPA is available across Metro Atlanta and Georgia right now. Whether you're a first-time buyer, educator, healthcare worker, or income-qualified buyer, there's likely a program that works for you.
See Your Real Savings
Enter your numbers. Watch how down payment assistance reduces what you need upfront.
Down Payment
$17,500Closing Costs (est.)
$12,250Total Out of Pocket
$29,750With Down Payment Assistance
Up to $28,750 in assistance available
You could put down what you have. Assistance covers the rest.
Available Now
Five programs.
Real money.
Georgia Dream Down Payment Assistance
Up to $12,500
Type: 0% interest deferred second mortgage. Repay when you sell, refinance, or move.
Who qualifies: Educators and healthcare workers qualify for up to $12,500; others up to $10,000.
Requirements:
- 640+ credit score
- Georgia Dream first mortgage required
- HUD-approved homebuyer education course
Learn more and apply:
Atlanta Housing Authority DPA
Up to $60,000
Type: 0% interest assistance for down payment and closing costs. Includes property repairs, post-purchase support, and one year of maintenance help.
Requirements:
- Housing Choice Voucher Program participant
- Property must be within Atlanta city limits
- Income verification required
Learn more and apply:
Fulton County Homeownership Program
Up to $22,500
Type: Forgivable after 6-11 years if you stay in the home. Up to 7.5% of purchase price for first-time buyers.
Requirements:
- First-time homebuyer status
- Fulton County property purchase
- Income below county limits
- Valid credit history
Learn more and apply:
Homestretch
Up to $10,000
Type: 0% interest assistance, fully forgiven after 5 years of ownership.
Requirements:
- First-time homebuyer
- 580+ credit score
- Income below 80% of area median
- Gwinnett County property only
Learn more and apply:
Down Payment Assistance Program
Up to $25,000
Type: Grant and forgivable loan combination for qualified first-time buyers in DeKalb.
Requirements:
- DeKalb County resident
- First-time homebuyer
- Income qualification (typically under 120% AMI)
- Valid credit
Learn more and apply:
Your Path Forward
Six steps to homeownership.
Research Your Options
Identify programs you qualify for based on location, income, credit score, and buyer status.
Check Eligibility
Contact programs directly to confirm you meet all requirements and see what documents you'll need.
Complete Education
Take a HUD-approved homebuyer course (typically online, 1-2 hours). Most programs require this.
Submit Application
Work with the program directly or through a participating lender. Most take 1-2 weeks to process.
Get Approved
Receive your assistance letter with the award amount and terms. You're now ready to make an offer.
Close & Celebrate
Funds are delivered at closing. Your assistance is applied to your down payment and closing costs.
Set the Record Straight
Common misconceptions about DPA.
Myth: You have to repay all assistance
Reality: Many programs offer forgivable loans or grants. If you stay in the home for the required period (typically 5-11 years), the funds become yours free and clear.
Myth: DPA is only for first-time buyers
Reality: While many programs target first-time buyers, some are open to repeat buyers, educators, or healthcare workers. Always check the specific program requirements.
Myth: You can't get DPA with a low credit score
Reality: Minimum credit requirements vary by program. Some require 640+, others 580+. There's likely a program for your situation.
Myth: DPA means lower quality homes
Reality: Down payment assistance is just a tool to help you afford a purchase. You can buy any property that meets the lender's standards.
Questions About DPA?