With over 20 museums in Phoenix alone and more native rattlesnakes than any other state (13, if you’re curious), Arizona attracts everyone from outdoor enthusiasts to urbanites. The 48^th state is a popular location for homebuyers, and with homeownership assistance programs, buying a home here is becoming a reality for even more people.

What qualifies as a first-time homebuyer in Arizona?

The good news here is that in the Grand Canyon State, programs aren’t restricted to first-time homebuyer status! That means anyone is welcome to apply, but there are additional eligibility requirements to ensure that those most in need receive assistance.

Statewide Homeownership Assistance Programs

Home Plus

Arizona’s statewide Home Plus Home Buyer Down Payment Assistance Program exists to make homeownership a reality. From Flagstaff down to Tucson and everywhere in between, income- and credit-eligible applicants can be approved for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage and down payment assistance up to 5 percent. For more information and to apply, visit the Home Plus official website.

Pathway to Purchase

While not entirely statewide, the Pathway to Purchase program covers specific zip codes and communities to assist homebuyers. Applicants apply for up to 10 percent of the purchase price in down payment assistance, and the Arizona Industrial Development Authority provides the mortgage. The areas currently participating in this program are: Bullhead City, Casa Grande, Glendale, Green Valley, Kingman, Phoenix, Rio Rico, Sahuarita, Sierra Vista, Tucson, Vail, and Yuma. Visit Arizona’s housing site for more details.

Homebuyer Programs by Location

Maricopa County

Anyone looking to settle down in Maricopa County — which includes Phoenix and the surrounding area — should definitely consider assistance from the Home in Five program. Launched in 2012, this program provides up to 6 percent down payment and closing cost assistance, as well as a competitive interest rate loan. Check out the Home in Five website to learn more.

Mesa

If you’ve longed to call Mesa home, the Homeownership Assistance Program is here to help. Eligible homebuyers can receive funds to assist in the down payment and closing cost expenses toward a new home. The program is targeted toward low- and medium-income families. For additional information, visit the City of Mesa’s community development website.

Phoenix

First-time homebuyers looking to settle in Phoenix have multiple programs to consider for assistance. The first in the Section 32 Homeownership Program –  which is for low-income first-time buyers –  can provide benefits such as a 20 percent discount on home appraisal value, a one-year home warranty, a grant for down payment and closing costs, and more.

The second program is the Open Doors Homeownership Program, which can provide up to $15,000 to first-time homebuyers for down payment and closing costs. Like Section 32, this program is intended to support low-income shoppers. You can learn more about both of these programs on Phoenix’s official housing website.

Pima County

In southern Arizona, the City of Tucson and surrounding Pima County can help homebuyers with the Down Payment Assistance Program. Income-eligible applicants may apply for assistance –  up to 10 percent of the contract sale price. There are additional obligations to the program, including a required residency during the affordability period; visit Pima County’s Home Buyer Resources page for more information.

South Phoenix

Looking to live on the south side of the state’s most populated city? South Phoenix participates in a Neighborhood Stabilization Program that supports homebuyers in the area. Eligible shoppers received $15,000 toward closing and down payment costs; visit Phoenix’s official website for more details.

Find Your New Home in the Copper State

No matter what aspect of Arizona living calls to you, there’s something for everyone the southwest. Check out more listings across the state of Arizona, and follow us on social media for more home shopping tips and tricks!