Virginia offers 56 down payment assistance programs to help homebuyers cover their down payment and closing costs. This includes 12 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 580 for some programs. Most programs require the home to be your primary residence, and many require homebuyer education.
Top Down Payment Assistance Programs in Virginia
Highlighted programs that combine high assistance amounts with statewide or major-metro availability. See the full list below.
Arlington County Moderate-Income Purchase Assistance Program (MIPAP)
verifyArlington County Department of Community Planning, Housing and Development
25% of purchase price (maximum ~ (max UP TO 25% of purchase price (maximum ~$100,000+ depending on need))
Loudoun County Down Payment & Closing Cost (DPCC) Assistance
verifyLoudoun County Department of Family Services
10% of sales price (whichever is less (max UP TO $70,000 or 10% of sales price (whichever is less))
Down Payment / Closing Cost Assistance Program Plus (DPCC Plus)
openLoudoun County
10 (max $70,000)
Down Payment/Closing Cost Assistance Program (DPCC)
openLoudoun County
10 (max $70,000)
Homeward Norfolk Program
openCity of Norfolk
$60,000
Grant Programs (12)
Grants are the gold standard of down payment assistance. You receive the money and never have to pay it back.
HOMEownership Down Payment & Closing Cost Assistance
Petersburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority (PRHA)
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
- $361,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1, USDA-RD
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Loudoun County Public Employee Grant (PEG)
Loudoun County Department of Family Services
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Income limits apply
- Min Credit Score
- 620+
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Conventional, FHA, VA
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- government employees
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
Grant. no repayment required.
Additional Requirements
Must be a Loudoun County government employee
Notes
First-time homebuyers who are Loudoun County government employees. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence in Loudoun County
Henrico County Employee Homebuyer Program (EHPAP)
Henrico County Department of Community Revitalization
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Income limits apply
- Min Credit Score
- 600+
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- $550,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
Grant. no repayment required.
Additional Requirements
Must be a Henrico County employee
Notes
First-time homebuyers who are Henrico County employees. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence in Henrico County
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
Virginia Housing Community Heroes Grant
Virginia Housing (formerly VHDA)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Must meet Virginia Housing Bond Loan inc...
- Min Credit Score
- 620+
- Property Types
- single-family, condo
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA, VA, Conventional
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- teachers, veterans, first responders, law enforcem...
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
True grant — no repayment required
Additional Requirements
Can be paired with other Virginia Housing programs (DPA Grant, Plus Second Mortgage). True grant — no repayment required.
Notes
First-time homebuyers required; exception for targeted area purchases. Launched December 10, 2025.
RRHA ComeHome Homeownership Initiative
Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority (RRHA) / Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America (NACA)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Income limits apply (HUD voucher eligibi...
- Min Credit Score
- 600+
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
Income limits apply (HUD voucher eligibility guidelines)
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
Varies by structure. DPA may be a grant. Contact RRHA for current terms.
Additional Requirements
489 people in pipeline as of early 2026. Program undergoing refresh — contact RRHA for current status. NACA partnership central to program.
Notes
Program targets public housing residents and voucher holders transitioning to homeownership for the first time
Virginia Housing Granting Freedom Program
Virginia Housing (formerly VHDA)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Income limits apply
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- veterans
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Repayment Terms
True grant — no repayment required
Additional Requirements
Program is for accessibility modifications only — not general purchase down payment assistance. Contact Virginia Housing for current grant amounts and agent list.
Notes
Not restricted to first-time homebuyers. For existing homeowners and renters with service-connected disabilities.
Virginia Housing Down Payment Assistance (DPA) Grant
Virginia Housing (formerly VHDA)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Varies by area and program; must meet Vi...
- Min Credit Score
- 620+
- Property Types
- single-family, condo
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Conventional, FHA
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
Varies by area and program; must meet Virginia Housing income limits
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
True grant. no repayment required.
Additional Requirements
Must obtain first mortgage through Virginia Housing. Homebuyer education course required
Notes
First-time homebuyers required; repeat buyers allowed in targeted areas. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence
Virginia Housing Closing Cost Assistance (CCA) Grant
Virginia Housing (formerly VHDA)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Must meet Virginia Housing Bond Loan inc...
- Min Credit Score
- 620+
- Property Types
- single-family, condo
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- VA, USDA
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- No
Repayment Terms
True grant — no repayment required
Additional Requirements
Must obtain VA or USDA first mortgage through Virginia Housing. True grant — no repayment ever required.
Notes
First-time homebuyers required; repeat buyers allowed in targeted areas
Chesapeake Redevelopment and Housing Authority (CRHA) HomeOwnership Program (HOP)
Chesapeake Redevelopment and Housing Authority (CRHA)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Must meet HUD Housing Choice Voucher eli...
- 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
Monthly assistance payment applied to mortgage, or one-time down payment grant. Not a traditional loan.
Additional Requirements
Assistance may continue 15 years (for 20+ year mortgage) or 10 years (for under 20-year mortgage). HCV-HOP and Public Housing HOP (HOP-PH) are separate tracks.
Notes
For current CRHA voucher and public housing residents transitioning to homeownership
Closing Cost Assistance Grant
Virginia Housing
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium
- Max Price
- $800,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- VA, USDA-RD
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Not specified
Down Payment Assistance Grant
Virginia Housing
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium, Manufactured
- Max Price
- $800,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA +2, Fannie Mae +1, FHA
- Assistance Type
- grant
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Forgivable Loans (10)
Forgivable loans are forgiven after a set period of living in the home. If you stay, you keep the money.
Loudoun County Down Payment & Closing Cost (DPCC) Assistance
Loudoun County Department of Family Services
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Income limits apply (varies by household...
- Min Credit Score
- 620+
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Conventional, FHA, VA
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Forgivable 0% loan. Fully forgiven after 15 years of owner-occupancy.
Additional Requirements
Must live or work in Loudoun County. Homebuyer education required
Notes
First-time homebuyers who live or work in Loudoun County. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence for 15 years
Virginia Pilot Down Payment Assistance
Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Income limits apply (varies by pilot are...
- Min Credit Score
- 620+
- Property Types
- single-family, townhome, condo, manufactured
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
Deferred forgivable loan. Terms vary by pilot program.
Additional Requirements
Pilot program. availability limited. Contact DHCD for current participating localities
Notes
First-time homebuyers. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence
Virginia DHCD HOMEownership Down Payment Assistance
Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 80% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- 620+
- Property Types
- single-family, townhome, condo, manufactured, 1-4 unit
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
Deferred 0% interest loan. Forgiven after 5-15 years depending on amount.
Additional Requirements
HOME-funded through local administering agencies. Homebuyer education typically required
Notes
First-time homebuyers at or below 80% AMI. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence
City of Norfolk Homeward Norfolk (HOME)
Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority (NRHA)
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
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Forgivable deferred loan. Forgiven after 10 years of owner-occupancy.
Additional Requirements
Homebuyer education required
Notes
First-time homebuyers purchasing in Norfolk. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence for 10 years
Newport News First-Time Homebuyer Assistance Program
Newport News Redevelopment and Housing Authority (NNRHA) / Hampton Roads Planning District Commission (HRPDC)
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
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Forgivable second mortgage. Forgiven after 5 years if under $15,000; after 10 years if $15,000+.
Additional Requirements
HUD HOME-funded through HRPDC Hampton Roads Loan Fund Partnership. First-come, first-served.
Notes
First-time homebuyers only
Make Suffolk HOME Down Payment Assistance
Suffolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority (SRHA) / Hampton Roads Planning District Commission (HRPDC)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 50-80% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- single-family, manufactured
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
At or below 80% AMI. Buyer contribution: 1% if income 50-80% AMI; $500 if below 50% AMI.
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
Forgivable amortized loan. 20% forgiven annually — fully forgiven after 5 years of owner-occupancy.
Additional Requirements
HUD HOME-funded through HRPDC Hampton Roads Loan Fund Partnership. 20% of loan forgiven annually over 5 years.
Notes
First-time homebuyers only
You're HOME Hampton Roads Program
Hampton Roads Planning District Commission (HRPDC)
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
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
Forgivable second mortgage. Forgiven after 5 years if under $15,000 or 10 years if $15,000+.
Additional Requirements
HUD HOME-funded through HRPDC Hampton Roads Loan Fund Partnership. First-come, first-served.
Notes
First-time homebuyers only
Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority (HRHA) Homebuyer Assistance Program
Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority (HRHA) / City of Harrisonburg
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 50-80% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- 620+
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- $250,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
1.5%
Repayment Terms
Down payment: 1.5% interest loan (repaid over time). Closing costs: forgivable after 5 years of owner-occupancy as primary residence.
Additional Requirements
Down payment portion is a 1.5% low-interest loan through HRHA. Closing cost portion is CDBG-funded forgivable loan (forgiven after 5 years of owner-occupancy).
Notes
First-time homebuyers only
Loudoun County DPCC Plus Program
Loudoun County Department of Family Services
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Lower income tiers (below standard DPCC ...
- Min Credit Score
- 620+
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Forgivable loan. Terms similar to DPCC.
Additional Requirements
Must also qualify for standard DPCC program
Notes
First-time homebuyers who qualify for standard DPCC. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence
Henrico County First-Time Homebuyer DPA
Henrico County Department of Community Revitalization
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
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- forgivable loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
Forgivable loan (contact program for current terms).
Additional Requirements
Homebuyer education required
Notes
First-time homebuyers in Henrico County. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence
Deferred Payment Loans (24)
Deferred loans require no monthly payments while you live in the home. You repay when you sell, refinance, or move out.
Down Payment / Closing Cost Assistance Program Plus (DPCC Plus)
Loudoun 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 +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Forgivable - Fully forgiven at closing or forgiven on a schedule
Down Payment/Closing Cost Assistance Program (DPCC)
Loudoun 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 +1
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Forgivable - Fully forgiven at closing or forgiven on a schedule
Homeward Norfolk Program
City of Norfolk
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.
- Not specified
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Flexible Homeownership Assistance Program (FHAP)
City of Alexandria - Office of Housing
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, HUD +2
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
HOMEownership Down Payment & Closing Cost Assistance Program
Creating Foundations For Hope Inc. (CFH)
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, 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
Call Chesapeake HOME Program
Hampton Roads Planning District Commision
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
Come HOME to Portsmouth
Hampton Roads Planning District Commision
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
Forgivable - Fully forgiven at closing or forgiven on a schedule
Make Isle of Wight HOME Program
Hampton Roads Planning District Commision
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
HOME Homeownership Program
Housing Opportunities Made Equal of Virginia
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Manufactured, 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
Hampton Roads Loan Fund Partnership (HRLFP)
Hampton Roads Planning District Commision
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Condominium, Manufactured
- 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
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
First Time Homebuyer Assistance Program
Newport News Redevelopment & Housing Authority
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
HOME Downpayment and Closing Cost Assistance
Suffolk Redevelopment & Housing Authority
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
Forgivable - Fully forgiven at closing or forgiven on a schedule
HOME First-Time Homebuyers Program
Central Shenandoah Planning District Commission
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- $271,000
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
Forgivable - Fully forgiven at closing or forgiven on a schedule
Public Employee Homeownership Grant Program (PEG)
Loudoun County
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- No
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
- Max Price
- $408,100
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
Hampton Roads Local Finance Program (HRLFP)
Hampton Roads Planning District Commission (HRPDC)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Varies by locality
- 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
Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
Varies by locality.
Additional Requirements
Regional program. contact HRPDC or local housing office for current terms
Notes
Check program requirements. varies by participating locality. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence
Virginia Housing SPARC Program (Sponsoring Partnerships and Revitalizing Communities)
Virginia Housing (formerly VHDA) with local government/nonprofit sponsors
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 80% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- 620+
- Property Types
- single-family, condo
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
Varies by local sponsor; typically at or below 80% AMI
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
Virginia Housing posted rate minus 1.00% (30-year fixed bond programs only)
Repayment Terms
Not applicable — interest rate benefit built into mortgage at origination
Additional Requirements
Can be combined with down payment assistance programs. Funding depends on local sponsor allocations.
Notes
First-time homebuyers only (no ownership in past 3 years)
Virginia Housing FirstHome Dream Program
Virginia Housing (formerly VHDA)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Must meet Virginia Housing Bond Loan inc...
- Min Credit Score
- 620+
- Property Types
- single-family, condo
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
Virginia Housing posted rate minus 2.00% (30-year fixed bond programs only)
Repayment Terms
Not applicable — interest rate benefit built into mortgage at origination
Additional Requirements
Can be paired with one other Virginia Housing program (DPA Grant, CCA Grant, or Plus Second Mortgage) plus non-Virginia Housing assistance.
Notes
First-time, first-generation homebuyers only. All borrowers and their parents must not have owned a home. Launched statewide after pilot in Richmond region FY2024.
First Time Homebuyers - Downpayment and Closing Cost Assistance
Henrico County - Community Revitalization
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
Down Payment Programs
Piedmont Housing Alliance
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.
- Yes
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
First Time Homebuyers Program (FTHB)
Prince William - 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, HUD +2
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Down Payment Assistance (DPA)
TAP into Hope
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.
- No
Interest Rate
None
Repayment Terms
Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance
Homeownership Down Payment Assistance Program (DPA)
Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Not specified
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD, 2 units, 3 units, 4 units, Manufactur...
- Max Price
- $730,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +4
- Assistance Type
- deferred loan
- Profession
- All
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
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 (8)
These programs provide DPA as a second mortgage, sometimes with monthly payments, sometimes deferred.
Arlington County Moderate-Income Purchase Assistance Program (MIPAP)
Arlington County Department of Community Planning, Housing and Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 80% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- 660+
- Property Types
- single-family, townhome, condo
- Max Price
- $100,000
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Conventional
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
Deferred 0% interest loan. Repayment due upon sale or refinance.
Additional Requirements
Must live or work in Arlington County
Notes
First-time homebuyers. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence
City of Alexandria Flexible Homeownership Assistance Program
City of Alexandria Office of Housing
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 80-100% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- Not specified
- Property Types
- single-family, condo, townhome
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA, VA, Conventional, HFA Advantage
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
Deferred 0% interest loan. Repayment due when home is sold, refinanced, or no longer owner-occupied.
Additional Requirements
Must live or work in Alexandria
Notes
First-time homebuyers living or working in the City of Alexandria. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence
Albemarle County Homebuyer Assistance Program (ACHAP)
Albemarle County Office of Housing / Piedmont Housing Alliance
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 80% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- 620+
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
Zero-interest deferred loan. Repaid at time of sale or refinance of primary mortgage.
Additional Requirements
Zero-interest deferred payment loan. Balance due at sale or refinance. Administered by Piedmont Housing Alliance on behalf of Albemarle County.
Notes
First-time homebuyers only
Call Chesapeake HOME Down Payment and Closing Cost (DPCC) Program
Hampton Roads Planning District Commission (HRPDC) / City of Chesapeake
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
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
At or below 80% AMI (1-person: $47,350; 4-person: $67,600; 8-person: $89,250)
Check AMI limits for your county →Repayment Terms
Deferred second mortgage. Repayment terms per DHCD HOME program guidelines. Forgivable based on amount received.
Additional Requirements
HUD HOME-funded. Administered through HRPDC. First-come, first-served.
Notes
First-time homebuyers only
Virginia Housing Plus Second Mortgage
Virginia Housing (formerly VHDA)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Varies by area; must meet Virginia Housi...
- Min Credit Score
- 620+
- Property Types
- single-family, condo
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- FHA, Conventional
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Income Limits
Varies by area; must meet Virginia Housing income limits
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
Same as first mortgage rate (30-year fixed); Plus Second Mortgage rate mirrors first mortgage with 0.25% addition (FHA/FHA Bond) or 0.125% addition (Conventional/Conventional Bond)
Repayment Terms
Second mortgage with monthly payments. Terms vary by loan type.
Additional Requirements
Credit score of 620-660+ depending on loan type. Homebuyer education required
Notes
First-time homebuyers; repeat buyers in targeted areas. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence; must retain liquid reserves of ~1% sales price after closing
Prince William County First-Time Homebuyers (FTHB) Program
Prince William County Office of Housing and Community Development
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- Income limits apply (~$100K+ depending o...
- 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
Income limits apply (~$100K+ depending on household size)
Check AMI limits for your county →Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
Deferred 0% interest loan with 30-year forgiveness period. Repaid upon sale or transfer; shared equity terms may apply.
Additional Requirements
Must live or work in Prince William County. Shared equity terms may apply
Notes
First-time homebuyers living or working in Prince William County. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence for 30 years
Piedmont Housing Alliance Down Payment Loan Program
Piedmont Housing Alliance (nonprofit HUD-approved housing counseling agency)
Eligibility Snapshot
- First-Time Buyer
- Yes
- Income Limit
- 80% AMI
- Min Credit Score
- 620+
- Property Types
- Not specified
- Max Price
- Not specified
Quick Facts
- Loan Types
- Not specified
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Interest Rate
0%
Repayment Terms
Varies by funding source. Typically deferred loans due at sale or refinance.
Additional Requirements
Piedmont Housing Alliance also administers ACHAP for Albemarle County and SPARC (1% rate reduction) statewide. Multiple funding sources mean terms vary. $7M+ deployed to 800+ families since 1983.
Notes
First-time homebuyers; program eligibility varies by funding source
City of Fredericksburg Direct Homeownership Assistance Program
City of Fredericksburg Planning Services Division
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
- Conventional
- Assistance Type
- second mortgage
- Profession
- all
- Homebuyer Ed.
- Yes
Repayment Terms
Deferred second mortgage. Repayment terms per program guidelines — contact City for current terms.
Additional Requirements
Also available: refinance assistance for qualifying households with adjustable or high-rate mortgages.
Notes
First-time homebuyers; exact requirements on official site
How to Apply for Down Payment Assistance in Virginia
-
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.
-
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.
-
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 Virginia?
Up to $100,000 through available programs in Virginia. 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. 5 programs in Virginia 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 580 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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