Texas and Austin down payment assistance
What each program offers, who it's for, and where to check the current limits.
Updated November 2026. Program money, limits and rules change, so confirm current details before you rely on them.
Three programs come up the most for Austin-area buyers. They are run by different agencies, and each has its own rules.
| Program | Who runs it | Where | Help available | Listed minimum credit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| My First Texas Home | TDHCA (state) | Statewide | Up to 5% of the loan, when funds are available | 620 |
| Home Sweet Texas | TSAHC (statewide) | Statewide | Up to 5% of the loan, as a grant or a forgivable second lien | 620 government, 640 conventional |
| Austin Down Payment Assistance | City of Austin | Full Purpose city limits only | Up to $40,000 as a 0% loan | Set by your loan |
My First Texas Home (TDHCA)
This state program serves first-time buyers and qualified veterans. Assistance can go toward down payment or closing costs. Income and purchase price limits depend on the county, and your household income can include people who will live in the home, even if they aren't on the loan.
Check the current TDHCA limits table. Austin-area counties are grouped together in the table.
Home Sweet Texas and TSAHC income limits
The Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation's Home Sweet Texas program serves low and moderate income households. TSAHC says low income generally means up to 80% of area median income, and moderate income runs up to 150–170%, depending on location and household size. Assistance comes as a grant or as a second lien forgiven after three years, if you don't sell or refinance before then.
Some repeat buyers may qualify, but only first-time buyers can get a Mortgage Credit Certificate. An approved homebuyer course is required. Teachers, police, firefighters, EMS workers, veterans and certain others should also look at TSAHC's Homes for Texas Heroes program.
City of Austin Down Payment Assistance
The city's homebuyer resources page currently lists:
- Up to $40,000 toward down payment, closing costs and prepaids, based on need
- A maximum sales price of $440,000
- A single-family home or condo inside the Full Purpose city limits
- First-time buyers who haven't owned a home in the past three years
- A completed homebuyer education course and a participating lender
| Household size | Listed income limit (80% MFI) |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $74,800 |
| 2 people | $85,450 |
| 3 people | $96,150 |
| 4 people | $106,800 |
| 5 people | $115,350 |
The address matters here. Many homes with an Austin mailing address, and the surrounding suburbs, may fall outside the eligible boundary, so check the city's map before you count on this money.
Not sure which one fits?
Send Grant your rough income, household size and target area. He'll check what you may qualify for and which programs he can offer.