Part 5 of our First-Time Home Buyer series.
Saving for a down payment is one of the biggest hurdles for first-time buyers. The good news: Georgia offers help. The Georgia Dream Homeownership Program, run by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA), provides down payment assistance through participating lenders.
How Much Assistance Is Available?
Standard: up to $10,000, or 5% of the purchase price, whichever is less.
PEN (public protectors, educators, health care workers, and active military): up to $12,500, or 6% of the price.
CHOICE (households with a member who has a disability): up to $12,500, or 6% of the price.
The assistance is a 0% interest, deferred second loan with no monthly payment. It's repaid when you sell, refinance, or pay off your first mortgage.
Who May Qualify?
Generally, first-time buyers who haven't owned a primary residence in the past three years (this is waived in certain targeted areas)
A minimum credit score of 640
Household income and purchase price within program limits
A $1,000 contribution from the buyer
Completion of a homebuyer education course
The first mortgage can be FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional, through a Georgia Dream participating lender.
Program Terms Change
Limits and requirements are updated regularly, so always confirm current terms with a participating lender. I'm happy to connect you with trusted lenders who work with the program.
Your Next Step
Down payment assistance can make homeownership possible sooner than you think. Explore buying with me, request the free Buyer Guide, or schedule a Discovery Call and we'll build your plan together.
This post is for general information only and is not lending advice. Program details as of 2026.
