How does the 4-to-1 WISH matching grant work?

For every $1 you contribute toward your down payment or closing costs, the WISH program matches it with $4, up to a maximum grant of approximately $32,000. For example, contributing $5,000 of your own funds triggers an additional $20,000 match.

Who qualifies for the WISH program in Arizona?

To qualify in 2026, you must be a first-time homebuyer, complete an approved homebuyer counseling course, and have a household income at or below 80% of the HUD Area Median Income (AMI) for the county where you are purchasing.

Can I use gift funds for my portion of the WISH program match?

Yes! The funds you contribute to trigger the 4-to-1 match do not have to be strictly from your own savings; they can also be gifted from an acceptable family member.

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The WISH Program: Arizona's 4-to-1 DPA Match

The WISH (Workforce Initiative Subsidy for Homeownership) program is, without a doubt, the "Golden Ticket" of Arizona real estate. Funded by the Federal Home Loan Bank, it is a unique and powerful down payment assistance grant that operates on a matching system to help low-to-moderate-income buyers build their down payment rapidly.

How the 4-to-1 Match Works

The WISH program matches $4 for every $1 you contribute to your home purchase. This is a true grant—it is not repaid as long as you do not sell or refinance the home within 5 years (it is forgiven on a pro-rata basis over that time).

Your Contribution: $7,500
WISH Grant Match (4x): $30,000
Total Down Payment: $37,500

In 2026, the maximum grant amount fluctuates but often caps around $30,806, which would require a contribution of roughly $7,701 from the homebuyer.

Who is Eligible?

The WISH program is fantastic, but its funds are strictly limited. Because the benefits are so high, the eligibility requirements are tighter than standard DPA programs:

First-Time Homebuyer: You must be a first-time homebuyer (defined as not having owned a primary residence in the last 3 years).
Strict Income Limits: Your household income must be at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for the county you are buying in. This is a stricter requirement than Home in Five.
Homebuyer Education: You must complete an approved homebuyer counseling program.
Your Own Funds: You must be able to document and contribute your portion of the match.

WISH Program FAQs

Can my portion of the match come from a gift?

Yes! The funds you contribute to trigger the 4-to-1 match do not have to be strictly from your own savings account. They can be gifted from an acceptable family member, giving you incredible leverage.

Are WISH funds available year-round?

No. The Federal Home Loan Bank allocates WISH funds to participating lenders annually (usually in the spring). Because it is essentially free money, the funds run out incredibly fast. You must be proactive and have your file ready to go when funds drop.

Can I use WISH with an FHA loan?

Yes, the WISH grant pairs well with FHA, VA, and Conventional loans. By using WISH with an FHA loan, you can easily cover the 3.5% down payment and all associated closing costs, completely eliminating out-of-pocket expenses.

Claim your WISH program match.

WISH funds are extremely limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact us immediately to see if funds are currently available and if your income qualifies.

Start WISH Pre-Approval

Jonathan Moses

Senior Loan Officer | ✅ Verified 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.

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The WISH Program: Arizona's 4-to-1 DPA Match

How the 4-to-1 Match Works

Who is Eligible?

WISH Program FAQs

Claim your WISH program match.

Jonathan Moses

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