Down Payment Grants: A Smarter Path to Homeownership
Dreaming of buying a home but struggling to save for the down payment?
What if there were a way to access funds for your down payment—no strings attached? With down payment grant programs, that dream is within reach.
These programs aren’t too good to be true—they’re real solutions designed to help buyers with good credit and steady employment histories break free from renting and step into homeownership sooner. Best of all, because these are grants, you never have to repay them.
More than 200,000 homebuyers across the country have already taken advantage of down payment assistance. Nonprofit organizations such as Partners in Charity and The Genesis Program offer 1% to 10% in down payment assistance, with some grants reaching up to $22,500. While requirements vary, buyers typically need to qualify for a mortgage and may need to complete a homebuyer education course or contribute a small percentage of their own funds.
These programs not only benefit buyers—they help sellers too by expanding the pool of qualified buyers, speeding up home sales in a competitive market.
Key Program Highlights
Partners in Charity (PIC):
Provides 2% to 10% of the home’s purchase price.
No cash investment required from the buyer.
Once mortgage pre-approval is secured, PIC assists with the remainder of the homebuying process, including connecting you with a qualified real estate agent.
The seller must participate, so early communication is essential.
After appraisal and loan approval, PIC wires the grant funds directly to the closing agent.
In return, PIC simply asks that you refer others who may benefit from the program.
Visit www.partnersincharity.org to apply and reserve your spot.
The Genesis Program:
Offers up to $22,500 toward down payment and closing costs.
No repayment, no lien, and no personal funds required from the buyer.
The seller contributes an amount equal to the gift, typically 1% of the sales price or $750.
To qualify, buyers must purchase a Participating Home and use a loan program that accepts charitable gift funds, such as FHA loans.
Genesis makes the path to homeownership simple, straightforward, and stress-free.
What to Expect
Eligibility requirements may include income limits, credit minimums, or geographic restrictions.
These grants are compatible with a wide range of loan types, including FHA, conventional, jumbo, and rehab loans, and apply to single-family homes, condos, townhomes, modular/manufactured homes, and new construction.
Most programs do not charge points or fees and do not underwrite the loan—they simply provide a gift to help make your homeownership goals a reality.
Ready to stop renting and start building equity?
Contact me, Margaret Munford, your trusted Texas real estate professional, and let’s explore which down payment assistance program is right for you.
Your homeownership journey starts today.