Homebuyer Assistance Programs Reach a Record High as Grants Expand

Getting the keys to a new home is becoming easier thanks to a growing number of assistance programs.

According to a new report from Down Payment Resource (DPR), the number of U.S. homeownership assistance programs hit a record high of 2,746 in the second quarter of 2026—up by 67 programs from earlier in the year.

As high house prices and mortgage rates make buying a home challenging, these programs help cover upfront expenses like down payments, closing costs, and lowering interest rates.

Key Takeaways

• Not Just for Low Income: You don't need to have a low income to qualify. 62% of programs allow income limits over $100,000, and 11% (291 programs) have no income limits at all.
• More Free Money (Grants): Programs offering grant money—which does not need to be repaid—grew by 6% to reach 234 programs nationwide.
• First-Time Buyers: Around 62% of all programs (1,696 total) are designed specifically for first-time buyers. Additionally, 35 programs specifically target "first-generation" buyers whose parents did not own a home.
• More Property Types Covered: Assistance isn't just for single-family houses.
  • 962 programs support buying multi-family properties (2 to 4 units), allowing buyers to use potential rental income toward affordability.
  • 1,089 programs (40%) cover manufactured homes.

Program Availability & Funding

While a record number of programs exist, availability varies:

• 77% (2,114 programs) are currently active and fully funded.
• The remaining programs are either inactive (12%), temporarily paused (6%), or have a waiting list for funding (5%).

Where Does the Money Come From?

• Local Cities & Towns: 39% (1,068 programs)
• Nonprofits: 601 programs
• State Housing Finance Agencies: 485 programs
• Local Housing Agencies: 207 programs
• Tribal Organizations: 56 programs

Top States for Assistance:

1. California: 439 programs (69.5% active)
2. Florida: 277 programs (71.5% active)
3. Texas: 198 programs (86.9% active)

The Bottom Line

Second mortgages (loans used to cover down payments that are often forgiven over time) remain the most common form of assistance, making up 56% of all programs.

Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking into alternative housing options like manufactured homes, checking available homebuyer assistance options in your local area could save you thousands upfront.

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Find out if you're eligible for housing support here!