Athens Housing Authority Down Payment Assistance Program
How much assistance
0% interest down payment assistance loan (amount varies) (Deferred Loan)
0% interest loan. Terms vary by program tier.
Eligibility
- Income limits: ACT I Homes: 60%-80% of Athens-Clarke County AMI (minimum $22,000 annual income). DPA Program: 80%-115% of AMI.
- First-time buyer required: Yes — Must be a first-time homebuyer and not own vacant land.
- Credit score minimum: 640
- Geographic restrictions: Must purchase within Athens-Clarke County.
- Homebuyer education required: Yes
How to Apply for Athens Housing Authority Down Payment Assistance Program
Step 1: Contact Rachel Deal at the Athens Housing Authority at rdeal@athenshousing.org or 706-425-5413. Applicants must attend one-on-one housing counseling with a professional housing counselor, have a credit score of at least 600, provide a minimum down payment of $1,000, be financially qualified to obtain a first mortgage, and complete a homeownership workshop.
Notes
Two program tiers: ACT I Homes (60-80% AMI, builds affordable homes with monthly payments often lower than rent) and the DPA Program (80-115% AMI, 0% interest loan for down payment). Credit score minimum 600 per AHA requirements; 640 recommended for best mortgage options.