Houston Down Payment Assistance
Discover how Houston-area home buyers can receive up to 5% in down payment and closing cost assistance through Texas state programs.
Population
2,304,580
Median Home Price
$270,000
Median Income
$56,019
DPA Available
Up to 5%
Down Payment Assistance in Houston, Texas
Houston is the largest city in Texas and the fourth largest in the United States, making it one of the most active housing markets in the state for down payment assistance programs. With a median home price of approximately $270,000, Houston offers a wide range of housing options for first-time and repeat home buyers who want to take advantage of Texas DPA programs.
The Houston economy is anchored by the energy sector, with major employers including ExxonMobil, Chevron, and Shell, as well as the Texas Medical Center—the largest medical complex in the world. These high-paying industries mean that many Houston-area workers earn enough to handle monthly mortgage payments but may struggle to save for a down payment, which is exactly the gap that DPA programs fill.
Harris County income limits for DPA eligibility are often higher than state averages due to the region's strong economic base. The TDHCA My First Texas Home program and TSAHC Homes for Texas Heroes program are both widely used in the Houston area, providing between 3% and 5% of the loan amount in down payment assistance.
Houston's sprawling metro area includes diverse neighborhoods and suburbs, from established inner-loop communities to master-planned developments in Katy, Sugar Land, Pearland, and The Woodlands. Many suburban homes fall within DPA purchase price limits while offering modern amenities and excellent schools.
DPA Program Note
Harris County has higher income limits due to metro AMI. Most Houston suburbs qualify for full DPA benefits.
Why Houston for Homeownership?
Key factors that make Houston an excellent market for buyers using down payment assistance.
Largest city in Texas
Energy capital of the world
Texas Medical Center - largest medical complex globally
No state income tax
Major Employers in Houston
Houston's diverse economy provides stable employment for home buyers qualifying for DPA programs.
Popular Houston-Area Communities
Explore neighborhoods and suburbs in the Houston metro where DPA programs can help you buy a home.
DPA Eligibility in Houston
Most Houston-area buyers who meet the following criteria can qualify for Texas down payment assistance programs.
- Household income within Harris County limits (varies by program and family size)
- Minimum credit score of 620 (some programs may allow lower with compensating factors)
- Purchasing a primary residence in the state of Texas
- Completing a HUD-approved homebuyer education course (available online)
- Working with a TDHCA- or TSAHC-approved lender like Cornerstone First Mortgage
- Meeting the purchase price limits for Harris County (currently up to $472,030 standard or $546,250 in high-cost areas)
Eligibility requirements vary by program. Contact the Cook Brothers Mortgage Team for a personalized eligibility assessment based on your specific financial situation and the Houston area where you plan to buy.
Houston DPA FAQs
How much down payment assistance can I get in Houston?
Home buyers in Houston can receive up to 5% of the loan amount in down payment assistance through TDHCA and TSAHC programs. On a $270,000 home, that's up to $13,500 in assistance.
What are the income limits for DPA in Harris County?
Income limits vary by program and household size. Harris County limits are based on the Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land Area Median Income (AMI). Generally, households earning up to 115% of AMI can qualify. Use our calculator or contact us for current limits.
Do I have to be a first-time buyer to use DPA in Houston?
No! While the TDHCA My First Texas Home program is for first-time buyers, the My Choice Texas Home program and some TSAHC options are available to repeat buyers. If you've owned a home before, you may still qualify for assistance in Houston.
Check Your Eligibility in Houston
Take our free 60-second quiz to see which Texas DPA programs you may qualify for in the Houston area. No credit check required, no obligation.
Cook Brothers Mortgage Team at Cornerstone First Mortgage | NMLS #173855