Pennsylvania offers 48 down payment assistance programs to help homebuyers cover their down payment and closing costs. This includes 10 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 $150,000 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 Pennsylvania
Highlighted programs that combine high assistance amounts with statewide or major-metro availability. See the full list below.
St. Martin Center First Time Homebuyers Project (Erie County Act 137)
openSt. Martin Center (funded through Erie County Act 137 Affordable Housing Fund)
Varies; Erie County allocates approximately $150,000 in Act 137 funds annually for all eligible applicants
NHS Greater Berks Closing Cost Assistance Loan Program
verifyNeighborhood Housing Services of Greater Berks (NHS Greater Berks)
$3,000 to $50,000
Housing Partnership of Chester County - First Time Homebuyer Program
verifyHousing Partnership of Chester County (HPCC) / Chester County Dept of Community Development
80% AMI (max UP TO $10,000 for Chester County; UP TO $20,000 for City of Coatesville (UP TO $40,000 for those at/below 80% AMI))
First Time Home Buyer Program
verifyHousing Partnership of Chester County
$40,000
Upper Darby Township First Time Homebuyer Program
verifyUpper Darby Township Community and Economic Development
UP TO $20,000
Grant Programs (10)
Grants are the gold standard of down payment assistance. You receive the money and never have to pay it back.
St. Martin Center First Time Homebuyers Project (Erie County Act 137)
St. Martin Center (funded through Erie County Act 137 Affordable Housing Fund)
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
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Repayment Terms
Grant -- no repayment required
Additional Requirements
Funding limited to approximately $150,000 per year county-wide. Applications administered by St. Martin Center. Contact Erie County Planning and Community Development for referral.
Notes
Must be a first-time homebuyer
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
Affordable Housing Centers of PA (AHCOPA) - NeighborhoodLIFT
Affordable Housing Centers of Pennsylvania (AHCOPA) via Wells Fargo NeighborhoodLIFT
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Cannot exceed $71,920 (borrower income)
- 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 required
Additional Requirements
AHCOPA is primarily a HUD-certified housing counseling agency. Must complete 8 hours homebuyer education. Also refers clients to various local grant programs
Notes
NeighborhoodLIFT requires first-time homebuyer status. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence
First Front Door Keys to Equity Grant
Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh (FHLBank Pittsburgh)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 120% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- single-family, townhome, condo, manufactured
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
Household income at or below 120% of Area Median Income (AMI) at time of registration
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
Grant forgivable over 5 years of owner occupancy. Pro-rata recapture if sold or transferred before 5 years.
Additional Requirements
2025 Keys funding round opened March 18, 2025; 2025 FFD round opens April 22, 2025. Program operated through funding rounds — not continuously available.
Notes
Must be a first-time homebuyer AND a first-generation homebuyer (neither parent/guardian ever owned a home, or both parents' homes were lost to foreclosure or short sale)
Philly First Home
Philadelphia Housing Development Corporation
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, 2 units, 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.
- No
City of Allentown First-Time Homebuyer Assistance Program
City of Allentown Community and Economic Development / Allentown Housing 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
- grant
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Income Limits
Low- and moderate-income families per CDBG/HOME program guidelines
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
Grant -- no repayment required (per third-party sources; official administrator is a subrecipient nonprofit using CDBG/HOME funds)
Additional Requirements
Program details limited on official website. City is HUD entitlement community. Contact Grants Manager Teri Dakuginow at 610-437-7610 or grants@allentownpa.gov for current program status.
Notes
First-time homebuyer program
Next Steps Grant
Catapult Greater Pittsburgh
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.
- No
First-Time Homebuyer Fund
Mt. Airy Community Development Corporation
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD, Manufactured
- 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
PHFA Grant
Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency
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
- Fannie Mae
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Down Payment and Closing Costs Assistance Program
Trehab Community Action Agency
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
- grant
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- No
Forgivable Loans (4)
Forgivable loans are forgiven after a set period of living in the home. If you stay, you keep the money.
Upper Darby Township First Time Homebuyer Program
Upper Darby Township Community and Economic Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Low-moderate income
- Min Credit Score
- 620+
- Property Types
- single-family
- Max Price
- $304,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Income Limits
Low- to moderate-income per HUD Part 5 definition; gross annual income of all adults 18+ expected to reside in home
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
0% interest forgivable loan. Forgiven over affordability period (5 years reduced from prior 10-year period as of 2025 update).
Additional Requirements
Federally funded program. Property inspection done once at no charge — pass/fail only. If property fails visual paint inspection, no assistance provided and file is closed.
Notes
First-time homebuyer program
HOMEstead Downpayment and Closing Cost Assistance Loan
Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Varies by county (per HUD guidelines)
- 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 +4
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
No-interest second mortgage. Forgiven at 20% per year over 5 years.
Additional Requirements
Min loan amount $1,000. First-come, first-served. Not available in all areas. May NOT be combined with other PHFA DPA programs
Notes
First-time buyer requirement. Must use Keystone Home Loan program.. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence
Northampton County First-Time Homebuyer Program
Northampton County Department of Community and Economic Development (NCDCED)
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
Combined household income at or below 80% of Area Median Income (AMI) for the Lehigh Valley as published annually by HUD
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
Forgivable loan: 20% forgiven per year for 5 years. If sold before 5 years, remaining unforgiven balance is due.
Additional Requirements
County places lien on property for 5 years. Loan forgiven 20% per year; fully forgiven after 5 years of continued ownership. Compatible with First Front Door and HOOP programs.
Notes
Must be first-time homebuyer or not have owned a home for at least 3 years
Keystone Flex with K-FIT (K-FLEX) Down Payment Assistance
Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Household income up to $196,200 (income ...
- Min Credit Score
- 660+
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- $659,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
Household income up to $196,200 (income limit increased to $204,000 effective June 30, 2025 for new locks); only borrower income counted, not full household
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
Forgiven 10% per year over 10 years. Fully forgiven after 10 years if borrower remains in home.
Additional Requirements
Can be used with Conventional, FHA, VA, or USDA first mortgage through PHFA K-FLEX program. Two-unit properties not eligible. Pairs K-FLEX first mortgage with K-FIT second mortgage.
Notes
No first-time homebuyer requirement in any county in Pennsylvania
Deferred Payment Loans (28)
Deferred loans require no monthly payments while you live in the home. You repay when you sell, refinance, or move out.
First Time Home Buyer Program
Housing Partnership of Chester 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
- $496,850
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, Refinance or Transfer
First Time Homebuyer program
City of Scranton
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
First-Time Home Buyer Program
Center County
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- 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.
- Not specified
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
First Time Home Buyers Program
Bucks County - Housing & Community Development
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
Homeownership First Program
Delaware County - Housing and Community Develop.
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- 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
Delaware County Homeownership First Program
Media Fellowship House
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- 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
First-Time Home Buyers Program
Monroe County - Redevelopment Authority
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- 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
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Pittsburgh Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance Program (DPCCAP)
Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh (URA)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 80-115% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- single-family, duplex, townhome
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
May not exceed 115% AMI. Two tiers: below 80% AMI gets up to $7,500; 80-115% AMI gets up to $5,000.
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
Below 80% AMI: 0% interest, 5-year deferred. 80-115% AMI: 0% interest, 10-year deferred. No payments during term if residency requirements met.
Additional Requirements
Lender must submit application on homebuyer's behalf. No outstanding County, City, or School real estate taxes. Liquid assets may not exceed $20,000 after closing. Application must be received 21+ business days before closing. 2% closing fee on URA loan amount
Notes
Must be first-time homebuyer. Must complete HUD-certified First-Time Homebuyer Course.. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence; must have name on deed
The Growing Homeowners Initiative
Luzerne County Office of Community Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- 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
Repayment Terms
Forgivable - Fully forgiven at closing or forgiven on a schedule
Lackawanna County Homebuyer Program
Neighborworks Northeastern PA
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- 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
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance Program (< 80% AMI)
Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, 2 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
Homeownership Program
Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh
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
Keystone Advantage Assistance Loan Program
Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium
- Max Price
- $596,700
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1, USDA-RD
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Fully Amortizing
Homebuyers Assistance Program (HAP)
Chester Economic Development Authority
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at Sale or Refinance
Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance Program
Cumberland County HRA
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Manufactured, Modular
- 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
Forgivable - Fully forgiven at closing or forgiven on a schedule
First Time Homebuyer Down Payment & Closing Cost Assistance Program
Housing Authority County of Butler
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
City of Scranton Homebuyer Program
Neighborworks Northeastern PA
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- 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
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance Program (80% - 115% AMI)
Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, 2 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
First - Time Homebuyers Program
Dauphin County Affordable Housing Trust Fund
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- $195,000
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
FHA Closing Cost Assistance Loan Program
Neighborhood Housing Services of Greater Berks
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
2% Fixed Simple Interest Rate
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
HomeOwnership Program Financing (HOP)
Neighborhood Housing Services of Greater Berks
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- 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
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
2% Fixed Simple Interest Rate
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
NHS Closing Cost Assistance Loan Program (CCAL)
Neighborhood Housing Services of Greater Berks
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- 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
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
2% Fixed Simple Interest Rate
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Bethlehem Homebuyer Assistance Program (BHAP)
Bethlehem - Community Development
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
Keystone Forgivable in Ten Years Loan Program (K-FIT)
Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Not specified
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium
- Max Price
- $596,700
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1, USDA-RD
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Forgivable - Fully forgiven at closing or forgiven on a schedule
Turn The Key (TTK)
Philadelphia Housing Development Corporation
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- 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
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Homebuyer Assistance Program
Rebuilding Alliance of Chester and Vicinity
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
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 (6)
These programs provide DPA as a second mortgage, sometimes with monthly payments, sometimes deferred.
NHS Greater Berks Closing Cost Assistance Loan Program
Neighborhood Housing Services of Greater Berks (NHS Greater Berks)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Low-moderate income
- Min Credit Score
- 620+
- Property Types
- single-family
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Conventional
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
2% over first mortgage rate (floor 5.00%, cap 9.99%)
Repayment Terms
Fully amortized second mortgage with 7 or 10-year repayment term. Interest rate is 2% over first mortgage interest rate (floor 5.00%, cap 9.99%). Monthly payments required.
Additional Requirements
NHS also provides free FASTRAC homebuyer education, credit counseling that satisfies PHFA education requirements. Note: Berks County is currently ineligible for HOMEstead program — buyers should use K-FIT, Keystone Advantage, or ACCESS programs instead.
Notes
First-time homebuyer or not owned primary residence; must plan to use as primary residence
Housing Partnership of Chester County - First Time Homebuyer Program
Housing Partnership of Chester County (HPCC) / Chester County Dept of Community Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 80% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- single-family, condo, townhome
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
0% interest second mortgage. Repaid when home is sold, transferred, or refinanced.
Additional Requirements
Must be 18+. Liquid assets after closing may not exceed $15,000. Must complete free homebuying seminar. Must complete financial counseling and homeownership training. Min $1,000 borrower contribution + 2 months reserves by settlement
Notes
Must be first-time homebuyer or have not owned in past 3 years. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence
ACCESS Downpayment and Closing Cost Assistance Loan
Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Gross annual household income may not ex...
- Min Credit Score
- 660+
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
Gross annual household income may not exceed 80% of statewide family median income (HUD definition)
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
0% interest second mortgage. No monthly payments. Due and payable upon sale, transfer, or non-owner occupancy.
Additional Requirements
Borrower or household member must have a permanent disability. Income may not exceed 80% of statewide median. Must also obtain ACCESS Home Modification loan. Funded through HOME Investment Partnership Program and American Dream Downpayment Initiative.
Notes
No first-time buyer requirement; must have permanent disability or household member with permanent disability
Montgomery County First-Time Homebuyer Program
Montgomery County
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Income limits apply
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- single-family
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Conventional, FHA, VA
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
Deferred 0% interest loan. Repayment required if sold, transferred, or vacated within 15 years.
Notes
First-time homebuyers. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence
Bucks County First Time Homebuyer Program
Bucks County / Bucks County Housing Group (BCHG)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- At or below 100% of Median Family Income...
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
At or below 100% of Median Family Income for Bucks County, based on family size
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
0% interest deferred mortgage. Repayable when home is sold, transferred, refinanced for additional debt, or is no longer the principal residence.
Additional Requirements
Bucks County Housing Group (BCHG) performs required housing counseling. Must attend group webinar and individual counseling session with BCHG. Contact kmalloy@bchg.org.
Notes
Must be a first-time homebuyer or have not owned a home in the past 3 years
Dauphin County First Time Homebuyer Program
Dauphin County
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 80% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- $224,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
At or below 80% AMI per HUD FY2025 Dauphin County income limits
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
Deferred 0% interest loan. No monthly payments; principal due upon resale or transfer.
Notes
First-time buyers. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence
How to Apply for Down Payment Assistance in Pennsylvania
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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.
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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.
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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.
-
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 Pennsylvania?
Up to $150,000 through available programs in Pennsylvania. 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. 8 programs in Pennsylvania 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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