Arizona Down Payment Assistance Programs 2026: Complete Guide
Learn about all Arizona DPA programs including HOME Plus and Pima Tucson. Get up to $20,000+ in free down payment assistance. Updated for 2026 with current income limits and eligibility requirements.
What Is Arizona Down Payment Assistance?
Arizona down payment assistance (DPA) is a state-funded program that provides up to 5% of your loan amount—typically $15,000 to $20,000+—to help Arizona home buyers cover their down payment and closing costs. According to the Arizona Industrial Development Authority, these programs have helped thousands of Arizona families achieve homeownership since their inception.
Key Takeaway: Arizona DPA programs provide up to 5% of your loan amount as a forgivable second mortgage. If you stay in your home for 3 years, you never have to pay it back.
Arizona DPA Programs at a Glance
| Program | Max Assistance | Forgiveness Period | First-Time Buyer Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| HOME Plus | Up to 5% | 3 years | No |
| Pima Tucson Homebuyer's Solution | Up to 5% | 30 years | No |
| PTHS Edge | Below-market rate | N/A | No |
HOME Plus Program (Arizona IDA)
The HOME Plus program, administered by the Arizona Industrial Development Authority (Arizona IDA), is the most widely used DPA program in Arizona. Here's what you need to know:
HOME Plus Eligibility Requirements
- Credit Score: Minimum 640 (660 for manufactured homes)
- Income Limit: $136,609 for all Arizona counties (2026)
- First-Time Buyer: NOT required—repeat buyers welcome
- Property Types: Single-family homes, condos, townhomes, manufactured homes
- Occupancy: Primary residence only
How HOME Plus Works
HOME Plus provides down payment assistance as a forgivable second mortgage. The DPA amount is forgiven at 1/36th per month—meaning after 36 months (3 years) of living in your home as your primary residence, you owe nothing back.
Pima Tucson Homebuyer's Solution (PTHS)
For buyers in Pima County and Tucson, the PTHS program offers an alternative with different terms:
PTHS Eligibility Requirements
- Credit Score: Minimum 640
- Income Limits: Vary by household size (contact us for current limits)
- First-Time Buyer: NOT required
- Location: Pima County and Tucson only
PTHS Benefits
- 30-year forgivable second mortgage with no monthly payments
- No interest on the DPA portion
- Forgiveness is prorated monthly over 30 years
How to Qualify for Arizona DPA
To qualify for Arizona down payment assistance, you'll need to:
- Meet income requirements: Household income must be below the program limit ($136,609 for HOME Plus in 2026)
- Have qualifying credit: Minimum 640 FICO score (higher for some loan types)
- Complete homebuyer education: A required 6-8 hour online course
- Purchase an eligible property: Single-family home, condo, or manufactured home
- Use as primary residence: Investment properties and second homes don't qualify
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arizona DPA really free money?
Yes. Arizona DPA programs are funded by state housing bonds. The assistance is structured as a forgivable loan—if you meet the occupancy requirements, you never have to pay it back. There are no hidden fees or balloon payments.
Do I have to be a first-time home buyer?
No. Both HOME Plus and PTHS are available to repeat buyers. The first-time buyer requirement was removed from these programs to help more Arizona families.
What's the income limit for Arizona DPA in 2026?
For HOME Plus, the income limit is $136,609 for all Arizona counties. PTHS limits vary by household size—take our quiz to get your specific limit.
How long does the Arizona DPA process take?
From first consultation to closing, expect 45-60 days. The DPA portion integrates with your standard mortgage timeline.
Next Steps
Ready to see if you qualify for Arizona down payment assistance? Take our 60-second eligibility quiz or call the Cook Brothers Mortgage Team:
- Tanner Cook: (480) 420-4918 | NMLS #2090424
- Zac Cook: (480) 406-2016 | NMLS #2111496
Cornerstone First Mortgage, NMLS #173855. Equal Housing Lender.
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