The City of Houston’s Homebuyer Assistance Program offers up to $75,000 based on need for eligible first-time homebuyers, with no program credit score requirement.
Verify Your Houston Homebuyer Assistance Eligibility
The City of Houston's Homebuyer Assistance Program is designed to help first-time homebuyers achieve their dream of homeownership by providing financial assistance.
The program offers up to $75,000 based on documented need through a forgivable loan for down payment, closing costs, and eligible homebuyer expenses.
This forgivable loan makes homeownership more affordable—simply live in your new home for five years and the loan is completely forgiven.
This initiative supports those who may struggle with the upfront costs of purchasing a home, making homeownership more accessible for Houstonians.
The program is straightforward, with a step-by-step process designed to guide applicants from start to finish. By offering financial relief and expert guidance, the Homebuyer Assistance Program helps you move closer to owning a home in Houston, Texas.
The City of Houston’s Homebuyer Assistance Program offers a range of benefits to make homeownership more accessible for first-time buyers. Here’s how the program can help you:
Up to $75,000 in assistance based on need.
Forgivable after 5 years.
No interest loan.
First-time homebuyer focus.
Helps low-to-moderate income buyers.
Flexible home choices within Houston.
No credit score requirement.
No application fees.
Step-by-step guidance.
Free city property inspection.
Check Your Eligibility: Start by verifying if you qualify online.
Secure Your Home Loan: Work with a lender to get approved for a mortgage.
Complete Homebuyer Education: Attend a HUD-approved homebuyer education class and receive your certificate.
Find Your New Home: Choose a home within the City of Houston that meets the program's criteria.
Receive Assistance & Close: Finalize your loan, receive your assistance, and complete the closing process.
U.S. citizen or permanent resident (including co-applicant and spouse).
First-time homebuyer or have not owned a home in the last 3 years.
Household income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI).
Purchasing a home that pays taxes to the City of Houston.
Must obtain a home loan from a participating lender.
Completion of a homebuyer education course from a HUD-approved agency.
Less than $50,000 in liquid assets at the time of application and closing.
Contribute at least $350 toward the purchase and meet the program's 33% housing and 45% total debt-to-income limits.
The Homebuyer Assistance Program offers a no-interest, forgivable loan designed to cover your down payment and closing costs.
The loan can provide up to $75,000 based on your financial need, and as long as you live in the home for five years, it is fully forgiven.
If you sell the home or move before the five-year period is complete, you’ll be required to repay a prorated portion of the loan based on the remaining time.
There are no monthly payments on this loan, providing financial flexibility as you transition into homeownership.
The program does not set a maximum home price. The housing expense ratio may not exceed 33%, and total monthly debt may not exceed 45% of gross monthly income.
All transactions are secured by a lien and are monitored to ensure compliance with program terms throughout the affordability period.
You may receive up to $75,000 in financial assistance based on your household's documented need.
Yes, the loan is forgivable after five years, provided you live in the home as your primary residence during that period.
No, there are no monthly payments required. The loan is forgivable if you meet the residency requirement.
If you move or sell the home before the five-year period, you’ll need to repay a portion of the loan based on the time remaining.
No, the program does not have a credit score requirement, but you must meet the debt-to-income ratio guidelines.
With decades of experience in helping homebuyers achieve their dreams, we’ve assisted thousands of individuals and families in becoming homeowners through our down payment assistance programs.
Our team brings local expertise and a deep understanding of the Houston housing market, ensuring you receive personalized guidance tailored to your unique needs.
We pride ourselves on building trust with the community, offering reliable support every step of the way. When you work with us, you're partnering with a trusted organization dedicated to making homeownership accessible and achievable for all.
