TDHCA My First Texas Home, Down Payment Assistance

Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA)

Available Home Repair

About This Program

TDHCA My First Texas Home, Down Payment Assistance is available in Houston, TX.

TDHCA's My First Texas Home program provides down payment and closing cost assistance of up to 5% of the mortgage loan amount as a 0%-interest lien, either forgivable over 3 years or deferred for 30 years. The program pairs with a Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) offering a 40% annual tax credit on mortgage interest (up to $2,000/year). Available to eligible first-time buyers and veterans statewide including the Houston area.

5% DPA on a $300,000 loan = $15,000 assistance. MCC provides $2,000/year federal tax credit.

Official source site checked live on 2026-06-22.

Data last verified 2026-04-03. How we verify our data.

In Houston, TX, you can combine this program with other local help to cut your cost:

Key Details

  • First-time homebuyer or veteran (no 3-year prior ownership)
  • Income and purchase price limits apply (check TDHCA limits by county)
  • 30-year fixed-rate mortgage required
  • 0% interest DPA lien; forgivable at 3 years or deferred 30 years
  • Mortgage Credit Certificate: 40% annual tax credit on mortgage interest, up to $2,000/yr

How to Apply

Get free help applying Visit Official Program Page Track this program

800-829-1040

A grant-savvy contractor in Houston, TX can handle the paperwork, inspections, and timelines so your funding releases on schedule. Getting matched is free.

You will likely need a contractor to apply

Projects like this almost always need a licensed contractor, and many grants ask for a written estimate as part of your application. Lining up a contractor in Houston early keeps your application moving.

Get matched with a contractor

This program is usually a forgivable loan: you owe nothing if you stay in the home for the set period, but it may place a lien on the property until then.

Each program sets its own contractor rules. Check the official program page for exact requirements.

Your application paperwork

Documents you will likely need

  • Proof you own and live in the home (deed, recent mortgage statement, or property tax bill).
  • A government-issued photo ID for every owner on title.
  • Household income proof (recent pay stubs, last year's tax return, or benefit award letters for everyone in the home).
  • Proof of military service (DD-214) and, for disability-based grants, your VA disability rating letter.
  • A written estimate from a licensed contractor for the work (many programs require this to apply).
  • Photos of the problem area or the work to be done.
  • The program's own application form, completed (use the official link or phone number on this page).
Download this checklist (PDF)

Requirements vary by program and locality. Confirm the exact rules on the official program page. We can help you prepare your paperwork, but you submit it yourself.

Deadline: Contact program

Questions about this program?

Ask us. It is free, and a real person answers within a business day.

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Frequently asked questions

How much can TDHCA My First Texas Home, Down Payment Assistance provide in Houston, TX?

Up to 5% of loan amount as DPA (plus 40% MCC tax credit).

Who qualifies for TDHCA My First Texas Home, Down Payment Assistance in Houston?

TDHCA My First Texas Home, Down Payment Assistance is available in Houston, TX. It serves veterans and military families.

How do I apply for TDHCA My First Texas Home, Down Payment Assistance in Houston, TX?

Apply directly with Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) using the official program link on this page or call 800-829-1040. There is no middleman and no fee.

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