More Down Payment Assistance Programs Introduced During Q1

The number of programs offering down payment assistance increased by 43 during the first quarter, a 2% quarterly uptick that brought the total number of available programs to 2,509, according to data from Down Payment Resource (DPR). The nationwide average benefit offered by these programs is $18,000.

Among the down payment assistance programs operating by in the first quarter, 952 programs (38%) were available to repeat buyers, while 240 programs (10%) did not have income restrictions, and 29 programs supported first-generation homebuyers, an increase of 16% over the previous quarter. Furthermore, 80% of these initiatives were deferred payment programs, a 3% increase from the previous quarter.

A total of 990 programs (39%) were offered through local housing finance agencies (HFAs), virtually unchanged from the previous quarter, while nonprofits accounted for 21%, a 2% increase over the previous quarter.

The number of programs supporting manufactured housing grew 6%, from 914 in the fourth quarter to 971 in Q1 2025, while 833 programs supported the purchase of multifamily housing, a 3% increase from the previous quarter.

“Rates are still high and prices keep climbing, but we’re seeing expanded program offerings, new providers and greater flexibility in how funds are used — not just for down payments but also to cover closing costs, lower the rate or meet other buyer needs,” said Rob Chrane, founder and CEO of DPR. “More programs now include manufactured and multi-family homes, opening new paths to affordability and steady income. For lenders, that means more ways to qualify buyers and close loans in a tough market.”