Arizona Down Payment Assistance 2026 | Roadrunner AZ
The biggest myth in real estate is that you need a 20% down payment to buy a home. In Arizona, that's completely false. Dozens of Down Payment Assistance (DPA) programs are available to help first-time and repeat buyers get into a home with little to no cash out of pocket.
These programs offer assistance in the form of grants (which don't have to be repaid) or silent second mortgages (which are often forgiven or have 0% interest). Here are some of the most popular DPA programs available in Arizona for 2026.
1. The Home in Five Program
This is one of the most well-known programs in Maricopa County. It's designed to help low-to-moderate-income buyers.
- Who it's for: Buyers in Maricopa County (including Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, etc.).
- What it offers: Up to 5% of the loan amount to be used for a down payment and/or closing costs. This is often combined with an FHA, VA, or USDA loan.
- Key Requirement: You must meet income limits and purchase price limits, and complete a homebuyer education course. Learn more here.
2. Arizona Pathway to Purchase (P2P)
This program is targeted at specific zip codes in Arizona that were hardest hit by the 2008 foreclosure crisis.
- Who it's for: Buyers purchasing a primary residence in targeted zip codes (we can provide a list).
- What it offers: A silent second mortgage for up to 10% of the purchase price (max $20,000). This loan is forgiven after 5 years.
- Key Requirement: This is for first-time buyers only (or those who haven't owned in 3+ years) and you must meet income limits. Learn more here.
3. The WISH Program
The Workforce Initiative Subsidy for Homeownership (WISH) program is a matching grant program that is incredibly powerful.
- Who it's for: Low-to-moderate-income first-time homebuyers.
- What it offers: A 4-to-1 match on your savings. For every $1 you save (up to $7,500), the program will grant you $4. This means you can get up to $30,000 in grant money.
- Key Requirement: You must be a first-time buyer, meet income limits, and put at least $2,500 of your own funds into the transaction. Learn more here.
How Do I Know Which DPA to Choose?
Navigating these programs can be confusing, as each has different income, credit, and property requirements. That's what we're here for.
As a mortgage broker, I have access to all of these programs and can quickly determine which one (or combination) will provide you with the most benefit. The best program for you depends entirely on your personal financial picture and where you want to buy.
Don't let a lack of a down payment stop you from building wealth through homeownership. The money is available—you just have to know where to find it.
Ready to see if you qualify for down payment assistance? Start your pre-approval, and we can review your options together.
Jonathan Moses
Senior Loan Officer | NMLS #2064741
This guide was prepared by Jonathan Moses (NMLS #2064741), the senior loan officer and founder of Roadrunner AZ Lending. With years of experience in the Phoenix and Scottsdale markets, Jonathan is dedicated to providing expert, transparent advice. Learn more about Jonathan.