Plenty of Georgia buyers assume they have to save every dollar of their down payment alone. Not so. There are programs designed specifically to help first-time and moderate-income buyers get in the door.
The kinds of help available
- Down payment assistance — funds to help cover the down payment and sometimes closing costs, often via the state housing finance agency for eligible buyers
- Affordable first-mortgage programs — competitive financing paired with that assistance
- Low-down-payment loans — conventional 3%, FHA 3.5%, and zero-down VA/USDA for those who qualify
- Gift funds — family contributions are allowed on many programs
Who counts as a “first-time” buyer
It's often broader than you'd think — many programs define it as not having owned a home in the past three years, so plenty of repeat buyers qualify too. Eligibility usually hinges on income limits, the purchase price, and sometimes a homebuyer education course.
Assistance programs have rules and limited funds, and they change. The move is to check your eligibility early — before you're under contract — so we can structure your purchase around any help you qualify for.
Let's see what you qualify for
Tell me your situation and I'll walk you through the first-time-buyer options that actually fit — including down payment help you may not know exists.
This article is general education, not a commitment to lend or an offer of credit. Program availability, terms, rates, and qualification guidelines vary by lender and are subject to change; all loans are subject to underwriting and final approval. Market figures are approximate and change over time. For guidance specific to your situation, reach out directly. Garrett Potz, NMLS #631592 · Affinity Home Lending, Company NMLS #1181151 · Equal Housing Lender.