New Jersey offers 44 down payment assistance programs to help homebuyers cover their down payment and closing costs. This includes 5 grant programs that never require repayment. Programs range from statewide options administered by the state housing finance agency to local city and county programs targeting specific communities.
Maximum assistance available reaches $100,000 through the most generous program. Credit score requirements start as low as 620 for some programs. Most programs require the home to be your primary residence, and many require homebuyer education.
Top Down Payment Assistance Programs in New Jersey
Highlighted programs that combine high assistance amounts with statewide or major-metro availability. See the full list below.
City of East Orange Homebuyers Purchase Program
verifyCity of East Orange
UP TO $100,000
Bergen County American Dream Program
verifyBergen County Department of Administration and Finance, Community Development
UP TO $65,000 (HOME deferred mortgage) + UP TO $10,000 (CDBG forgivable grant) = UP TO $75,000 combined
FHLBNY Homebuyer Dream Program Wealth Builder (HDP Wealth Builder)
verifyFederal Home Loan Bank of New York (FHLBNY) via participating member lenders
UP TO $30,000 standalone; UP TO $60,000 combined with HDP or HDP Plus
NJCC Statewide DPA Program (Address Yourself)
verifyNew Jersey Community Capital (NJCC)
$10,000 to $30,000 based on need; UP TO $52,000 combined with NJHMFA DPA
Essex County Homebuyer Assistance Program (HAP)
verifyEssex County Division of Housing and Community Development
UP TO $50,000
Grant Programs (5)
Grants are the gold standard of down payment assistance. You receive the money and never have to pay it back.
FHLBNY Homebuyer Dream Program Wealth Builder (HDP Wealth Builder)
Federal Home Loan Bank of New York (FHLBNY) via participating member lenders
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 120% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Grant; no repayment if retention requirements met. Recapture if sold or transferred before end of retention period.
Additional Requirements
Designed to address the racial wealth gap. Can be layered with HDP or HDP Plus for up to $60,000 total grant per household. Applied for through FHLBNY participating member lenders only.
Notes
Must not have owned a home in the 3 years prior to purchase
FHLBNY Homebuyer Dream Program (HDP) - Standard
Federal Home Loan Bank of New York (FHLBNY) via participating member lenders
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 80% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA, Conventional
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Grant (not a loan); no repayment if owned for 5 years. Recapture applies if sold or transferred before 5-year retention period ends.
Additional Requirements
Grant is subject to recapture if home is sold or ceases to be primary residence within 5 years. Funds awarded first-come, first-served. 2026 round opened February 9, 2026; ends November 27, 2026 or when funds exhausted. $31,670,000 allocated for 2026. Applied for through participating FHLBNY member lenders only.
Notes
Must not have owned a home in the 3 years prior to purchase
FHLBNY Homebuyer Dream Program Plus (HDP Plus)
Federal Home Loan Bank of New York (FHLBNY) via participating member lenders
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 80% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA, Conventional
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
Greater than 80% AMI but not to exceed 120% AMI (NJ and NY)
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
Grant; no repayment if retention requirements met. Recapture if sold or transferred before end of retention period.
Additional Requirements
Voluntary program available through participating FHLBNY members. Can be layered with HDP Wealth Builder for up to $60,000 combined. Applied for through FHLBNY participating member lenders only.
Notes
Must not have owned a home in the 3 years prior to purchase
Down Payment Assistance
Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde - Housing
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Jersey City Golden Neighborhood Homeownership Program (GNHP)
City of Jersey City, Division of Community Development (DCD)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 60-80% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- 660+
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- $10,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
60%-80% of Area Median Income (AMI); individual income approximately $48,300-$64,350/year; limits scale with household size
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
Grant structure (no interest, no monthly payments). Recapture schedule applies if sold or transferred before end of affordability period. Partial repayment based on recapture schedule.
Additional Requirements
Program uses a lottery selection process among qualifying applicants. Subsidy is a grant with no interest charges. Applicants not qualifying for the grant may receive financial coaching and referral to mortgage fair with local/national banks. Application windows vary; contact DCD for current cycle.
Notes
First-time homebuyers who are current residents of Jersey City
Forgivable Loans (16)
Forgivable loans are forgiven after a set period of living in the home. If you stay, you keep the money.
Bergen County American Dream Program
Bergen County Department of Administration and Finance, Community Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Low-moderate income
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- condo, multi-family
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Conventional
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- No
Income Limits
Low/moderate income per HOME Income Guidelines; not to exceed 80% of county median household income
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
HOME portion (up to $65,000): 0% deferred mortgage, repaid on sale/transfer/change of primary residence. CDBG portion (up to $10,000): forgiven 10% per year over 10 years.
Additional Requirements
HOME funds: deferred repayment mortgage; repaid upon sale, transfer of title, or when no longer primary residence. CDBG matching funds ($10,000): forgiven 1/10th per year over 10 years; becomes a full grant after 10 years. Subject to fund availability.
Notes
First-time homebuyers who live or work within Bergen County limits
NJCC Statewide DPA Program (Address Yourself)
New Jersey Community Capital (NJCC)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Not specified
- Income Limit
- 100% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- multi-family
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
100% of HUD AMI or below, by county, adjusted for household size
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
5-year term, forgivable at 20% per year. Prorated balance due upon sale or refinance within 5 years. Fully forgiven after 5 years.
Additional Requirements
Min personal funds: lesser of one escrowed mortgage payment or $2,000. HUD-approved pre-purchase housing counseling certificate required (within 1 year). ITIN holders eligible. Landlord education required if purchasing multi-family. Funding paused July 2025, expected to reopen with 2026 funding
Notes
No explicit first-time buyer requirement. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence only (1-4 family). No investment or second homes.
Atlantic City Down Payment Assistance Program (ACDPAP)
Atlantic County Improvement Authority (ACIA)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- $131,000 total household income; must be...
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- single-family, condo, townhome
- Max Price
- $544,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
$131,000 total household income; must be below 80% of median family income
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
0% deferred with 20-year term and shared proceeds: Before 5 years = loan + 50% net proceeds; 6-10 years = loan + 10% net proceeds; 11-20 years = loan amount only.
Additional Requirements
Must have resided in Atlantic County for 12 months OR be employed in Atlantic County. Must complete HUD-approved homebuyer counseling/education. Can be stacked with state-sponsored assistance
Notes
Must not have owned a home in last 3 years. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence for entire 20-year loan term. Max DTI: 35%
New Brunswick Esperanza Down Payment Assistance Program
New Jersey Community Capital (NJCC) in partnership with New Brunswick Tomorrow (NBT)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 80% of gross prior year income based on ...
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
80% of gross prior year income based on family size, per current Middlesex County HUD income guidelines
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
Recoverable grant; forgiven after 5 years of owner-occupancy. Prorated recovery if sold or transferred within 5 years.
Additional Requirements
Grant is recoverable (forgivable after 5 years). Funded through NJ Neighborhood Revitalization Tax Credit (NRTC) program. Can be combined with NJCC DPA for additional assistance. Contact NJCC for current funding status (program launched 2022-2023; verify 2026 availability).
Notes
Must be first-time homebuyer in the U.S. Must be current New Jersey resident purchasing in the Esperanza neighborhood of New Brunswick. Residents outside New Brunswick may qualify if gross income is less than 50% of HUD AMI for Middlesex County.
Camden County First-Time Homebuyers Program
Camden County Improvement Authority
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Low-moderate income
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Income Limits
Low and moderate income per HUD annual limits; varies by county and household size
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
0% forgivable loan. Loans under $15,000 forgiven after 5 years. Amounts between $15,000 and $25,000 forgiven after 10 years. Repaid if sold, transferred, or refinanced within affordability period.
Additional Requirements
HUD HOME-funded. Lien placed on property, recorded with Camden County Clerk. Various limits (max purchase prices, income limits) set annually. Note: Camden City residents should use City of Camden FTHP (separate program already in baseline).
Notes
First-time homebuyers; no credit history review during application process
NJHMFA Down Payment Assistance Program
New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 140% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- 620+
- Property Types
- single-family, condo, townhome, mobile home, 1-4 unit
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA, VA, USDA
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Income Limits
Must not exceed 140% AMI; varies by county, household size, and funding source
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
0% interest, no monthly payments; forgiven after 5 years of continuous owner-occupancy. Full repayment if sold, refinanced, or first mortgage paid off within 5 years.
Additional Requirements
Must pair with NJHMFA first mortgage (30-year fixed-rate FHA/VA/USDA) through participating lender. Borrower must not have enough liquid assets to close at 80% LTV or less. First Generation add-on ($7,000 extra) available for first-generation homebuyers
Notes
Must not have owned a home in the previous 3 years. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence
NJHMFA First-Generation Down Payment Assistance
New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Same as NJHMFA DPA
- Min Credit Score
- 620+
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Repayment Terms
Same as standard NJHMFA DPA. forgiven after 5 years.
Additional Requirements
Must also qualify for standard NJHMFA DPA
Notes
Must be first-generation homebuyer (parents/legal guardians have no present ownership interest in residential property). Occupancy requirement: Primary residence
NJHMFA Homeward Bound Mortgage Program with DPA
New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- 140% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- 620+
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Income Limits
Up to 140% of Area Median Income; varies by county and household size
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
DPA: 0% interest, no monthly payments; forgiven after 5 years of continuous owner-occupancy. Full repayment if sold, refinanced, or first mortgage paid off within 5 years.
Additional Requirements
Significant distinction from standard NJHMFA program: Homeward Bound is open to repeat homebuyers, not just first-time buyers. DPA is same forgivable structure (5-year, 0% interest). Must pair with NJHMFA Homeward Bound first mortgage. Apply through NJHMFA-approved participating lender.
Notes
KEY DISTINCTION: Open to both first-time AND repeat homebuyers. 25% of funds reserved for first-time buyers. Qualified veterans and buyers in Urban Target Areas exempt from first-time buyer requirement (per July 2025 Schedule of Changes).
City of Newark Live Newark Homebuyer Assistance
City of Newark
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Varies
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
Forgivable loan. 20% forgiven for each full year lived in home. Fully forgiven after 5 years. 0% interest.
Notes
First-time homebuyers. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence within Newark city limits; 5 years for full forgiveness
Trenton Neighborhood Initiative (TNI) Homebuyer Assistance Program
Trenton Neighborhood Initiative (TNI) in partnership with New Jersey Community Capital (NJCC)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 80% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- single-family, multi-family
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
Cannot exceed 80% of Area Median Income (AMI) by household size
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
Forgivable loan; restriction period length based on total assistance provided. Forgiven at end of restriction period. Contact TNI/NJCC for specific terms.
Additional Requirements
Administered as part of NJCC Address Yourself program. Partner organizations provide pre-purchase housing counseling and referrals to lenders specializing in low-to-moderate income buyers. DPA available when buyer has found home and is ready to purchase. Note: This is distinct from the City of Trenton's separate CDBG-funded FTHBP program.
Notes
First-time homebuyers seeking to purchase in Trenton
City of Trenton First-Time Homebuyer Program (FTHBP)
City of Trenton, Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 80% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
Cannot exceed 80% of Area Median Income (AMI) by household size
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
0% interest deferred loan. Must keep affordable for 5 years and maintain as primary residence. Repayment required if sold, transferred, or refinanced within affordability period.
Additional Requirements
Assistance not available to individuals currently holding interest in real estate (with exceptions). Appointment required prior to application. Application accepted after home is under contract. Loans approved by Loan Review Committee vote. HOME/CDBG funded, first-come first-served.
Notes
Must never have owned a property OR must not have owned a home in the past 3 years. Must be a U.S. Citizen.
City of Camden First Time Homebuyer's Program (FTHP)
City of Camden, Division of Housing Services
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Low-moderate income
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- single-family
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Repayment Terms
Deferred loan with mortgage lien. Entire subsidy repaid if sale/transfer within 5 years.
Additional Requirements
All applications must settle within 120 calendar days from submission. HOME-funded
Notes
First-time homebuyers. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence for 5 years
Monmouth County First-Time Homebuyer Assistance Program
Monmouth County Planning Board, Community Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 80% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- 1-4 unit
- Max Price
- $475,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
Interest-free, deferred-payment second mortgage. Completely forgiven after 5 years of owner-occupancy. No monthly payments required.
Additional Requirements
Download FY2025 packet, complete counseling, submit lender pre-approval plus signed sales contract to County Planning Board. HUD-funded program. First-come, first-served.
Notes
Must be first-time homebuyer (never owned a home, or not owned in past 3 years). Single parents who previously owned with a spouse may also qualify.
Somerset County American Dream Downpayment Initiative (ADDI)
Central Jersey Housing Resource Center (CJHRC) / Somerset County Community Development Office
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 80% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- single-family, condo, manufactured
- Max Price
- $10
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Five-year deed restriction. Full repayment required if sold or no longer primary residence before 5 years (not prorated). Restriction lifted after 5 years.
Additional Requirements
Must complete homebuyer education program through CJHRC prior to signing contract. Must complete at least one one-on-one housing counseling session. Must have saved at least 5% of purchase price. Cannot mortgage more than 4x gross income. HOME Investment Partnership Program funded. Over-enrichment test: applicants with 10% down + all closing costs + $10K liquid assets remaining will not qualify
Notes
Must not have owned a home during the 3-year period prior to purchase. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence for full 5-year restriction period
City of Paterson First-Time Homebuyer Program (FTHBP)
City of Paterson, Housing Division
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Per HUD income guidelines, revised annua...
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- No
Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
0% interest deferred loan. 5-year affordability period. Repayment required if sold, transferred, or no longer primary residence within affordability period.
Additional Requirements
HOME-funded, one-time assistance. Combined bank + City of Paterson loan amounts cannot exceed lesser of 100% of acquisition cost or appraised value. Loans approved by Loan Review Committee vote. No financed closing costs permitted. Contact Housing Division for current funding availability.
Notes
First-time homebuyer; must not hold interest in other real estate (with exceptions)
Mercer County First-Time Homebuyer Program (FTHB)
Mercer County Department of Housing and Community Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Based on family size and income per HUD ...
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Income Limits
Based on family size and income per HUD HOME guidelines
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
Deferred loan; forgiveness schedule based on program terms. Contact county for specific terms.
Additional Requirements
HOME Investment Partnerships Program funded. Contact county directly for current funding levels and eligibility. Applications through Mercer County Housing Office.
Notes
Must not have owned a home within the past 3 years. Exceptions for single parents and displaced homemakers.
Deferred Payment Loans (22)
Deferred loans require no monthly payments while you live in the home. You repay when you sell, refinance, or move out.
City of East Orange Homebuyers Purchase Program
City of East Orange
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Income-eligible (specific limits not con...
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
Income-eligible (specific limits not confirmed in available evidence)
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
Deferred payment loan. Specific terms should be confirmed with city directly.
Additional Requirements
HOME Investment Partnership Program funded. Must contribute 1.5% of mortgage toward down payment. Must have 2 months mortgage payments in bank. Note: July 2025 announcement states $100K; older program manual showed tiered amounts up to $25K. Program may have been significantly expanded.
Notes
First-time homebuyers. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence. Max DTI: 43%
Essex County Homebuyer Assistance Program (HAP)
Essex County Division of Housing and Community Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Low income
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- single-family, condo, townhome
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Income Limits
Extremely low, very low, and low-income households per HUD guidelines
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
0% no-interest, 15-year deferred loan. Repayment terms tied to 15-year loan period; specific forgiveness schedule should be confirmed with county directly.
Additional Requirements
HOME Investment Partnership Program funded. Applications submitted through Essex County website. Contact Essex County Housing and Community Development for current income limits and participating municipalities.
Notes
Program targeted at first-time homebuyers; must purchase within Essex County Consortium municipalities
NJCC Statewide Down Payment Assistance Program
New Jersey Community Capital
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, 2 units, 3 units, 4 units, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- $625,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +4
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
First Time Homebuyer program
Camden County
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD, 2 units, Manufactured
- Max Price
- $290,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1, USDA-RD
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Forgivable - Fully forgiven at closing or forgiven on a schedule
Gloucester County Homebuyer Down Payment Assistance Program
County of Gloucester Dept of Economic Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Manufactured
- Max Price
- $290,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Trenton Neighborhood Initiative Homebuyer Assistance Program
New Jersey Community Capital
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, 2 units, 3 units, 4 units, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Ocean County First-Time Homebuyers Program
O.C.E.A.N., Inc. (Ocean County Consortium administrator)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 80% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- single-family, condo, townhome, manufactured, mobile home
- Max Price
- $475,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
80% AMI (HH1: $68,500; HH2: $78,250; HH3: $88,050; HH4: $97,800)
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
Deferred loan, forgiven after 6 years of owner-occupancy as primary residence. No monthly payments.
Additional Requirements
Must be Ocean County resident and U.S. citizen or qualified alien. Must have 3% down payment (1% from own account). Must meet asset test requirements and show established savings pattern. Must attend O.C.E.A.N., Inc. HUD-Certified Homeownership Education Workshops. Must have steady employment history. Property must meet HUD and local housing standards
Notes
Must not have owned a home in the past 3 years. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence within 60 days of closing; must remain primary residence for entire 6-year grant period
First Time Home Buyer Program
City of Camden
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
First Time Home Buyers (FTHB)
City of Perth Amboy
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Forgivable - Fully forgiven at closing or forgiven on a schedule
Monmouth County First-Time Home Buyers Program
Monmouth County
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, 2 units, 3 units, 4 units, Condominium
- Max Price
- $885,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
AtlantiCare Down Payment Assistance Program
New Jersey Community Capital
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, 2 units, 3 units, 4 units, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
East Trenton Collaborative (ETC) Down Payment Assistance Program
New Jersey Community Capital
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, 2 units, 3 units, 4 units, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Burlington County First Time Homebuyer Program
Burlington County
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +4
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Mercer County Consortium HOME First-Time Homebuyer Program
County of Mercer Housing & Community Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, 2 units, 3 units, 4 units, Condominium, Manufactured
- Max Price
- $309,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +4
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
First Generation Down Payment Assistance Program
New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium, 2 units, 3 units, 4 units
- Max Price
- $2,415,683
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Interest Rate
0% interest
Repayment Terms
Fully forgiven at closing or forgiven on a schedule
Middlesex County American Dream Downpayment Program (ADDI)
Middlesex County Division of Housing, Community Development & Social Services
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Cannot exceed HUD-established income lim...
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- single-family
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1, USDA-RD
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
Cannot exceed HUD-established income limits (HOME Investment Partnerships Program)
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
Deferred repayment mortgage; no payment of principal or interest required if homebuyer owns and lives in property for 5 years. Full repayment required if sold, transferred, or no longer primary residence within 5 years.
Additional Requirements
Applications and appointments only through HUD-approved housing counseling agencies (e.g., Puerto Rican Action Board). Funded under HUD HOME Investment Partnerships Program.
Notes
Must be a first-time homebuyer and existing Middlesex County resident for at least 1 year
Home Ownership Assistance Program (HOAP)
City of Vineland - Community Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
City of Passaic First-Time Homebuyer Program (HOME)
City of Passaic, Department of Community Development (DCD)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Low-moderate income
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Additional Requirements
HOME Investment Partnership Program funded. Applications accepted on first-come, first-served basis. Low volume program (1 household assisted in prior year due to market conditions)
Notes
First-time homebuyers
First-Time Homebuyer's Program
Paterson - Community Development Housing Division
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Township of Lakewood
Township of Lakewood
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium, 2 units, 3 units, 4 units
- Max Price
- $826,218
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Chenoa Fund FHA Down Payment Assistance Forgivable
CBC Mortgage Agency (Chenoa Fund)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, 2 units, Leasehold, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD, Manufactured
- Max Price
- $766,550
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Chenoa Fund FHA Down Payment Assistance Repayable
CBC Mortgage Agency (Chenoa Fund)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, 2 units, Leasehold, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD, Manufactured
- Max Price
- $766,550
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
Note rate 1% above the first mortgage note rate
Repayment Terms
This loan does require a monthly payment on the second mortgage.
Second Mortgages (1)
These programs provide DPA as a second mortgage, sometimes with monthly payments, sometimes deferred.
Housing Partnership Down Payment Assistance Program
Housing Partnership (Dover, NJ)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 115% of HUD median income (2025: HH1 $10...
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- single-family, condo
- Max Price
- $125
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
115% of HUD median income (2025: HH1 $106,019; HH2 $121,164; HH3 $136,310; HH4 $151,455)
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
Zero-interest second mortgage. 100% recoverable upon resale, refinance, renting, or home equity loan. Not forgivable.
Additional Requirements
Must complete 8-hour Homebuyer Education Workshop within past 12 months. Must complete one-on-one financial coaching session. Minimum 2% down payment from own funds (3.5% for FHA, not including DPA). Must have $2,000 reserves after closing. Liquid assets over 15% of purchase price render applicant ineligible. Must secure fixed-rate 30-year mortgage through Housing Partnership partner bank. $125 non-refundable application fee. Allow up to 6 weeks for review
Notes
First-time homebuyers. Occupancy requirement: Must remain resident of the home. Recoverable upon resale, refinance, renting, or home equity loan.. Max DTI: 43%
How to Apply for Down Payment Assistance in New Jersey
-
1
Check Your Eligibility
Use our free eligibility tool to see which programs match your situation. Enter your state, city, income, and target home price.
-
2
Contact the Program Administrator
Each program has its own application process. Visit the program website or call the administering agency to get started. Many programs work through approved lenders.
-
3
Get Pre-Approved with a Participating Lender
Not every lender participates in every DPA program. Work with a lender who is approved for the programs you want. The program administrator can provide a list of approved lenders.
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4
Complete Homebuyer Education (If Required)
Many programs require a HUD-approved homebuyer education course. Online options through eHome America and Framework are accepted by most programs.
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5
Close & Move In
DPA funds are typically disbursed at closing alongside your first mortgage. Your lender coordinates the DPA program paperwork as part of the loan process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much down payment assistance can I get in New Jersey?
Up to $100,000 through available programs in New Jersey. Multiple programs can often be combined for even more assistance. The exact amount depends on your income, location, and the specific program requirements.
Do I need to be a first-time homebuyer?
Not always. 9 programs in New Jersey are open to repeat buyers. "First-time buyer" is typically defined as not having owned a home in the past three years.
What credit score do I need?
As low as 620 for some programs. Most programs require 620-660. Higher credit scores may qualify you for more programs and better terms.
Can I combine multiple DPA programs?
In many cases, yes. Some programs are specifically designed to be layered with others. For example, you might combine a state grant with a local deferred loan. Check with each program administrator about stacking eligibility.
DPA Programs in Nearby States
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