Dover First Start Down Payment Assistance Program
Funding status: Active
How much assistance
Up to $20,000 (Forgivable Loan)
Zero-interest forgivable loan with no monthly payments. Fully forgiven after 10 years of owner-occupancy as primary residence. If sold, transferred, or no longer primary residence within 10 years, the full amount must be repaid.
Eligibility
- Income limits: Household income cannot exceed 80% of the area median income for the City of Dover, based on family size per HUD guidelines.
- First-time buyer required: Yes — Must not have owned a principal residence in the last 3 years. Exception for single parents who have not owned a home for at least one year except as part of a joint ownership.
- Credit score minimum: 620
- Geographic restrictions: Property must be within the City of Dover limits and used as primary residence.
- Homebuyer education required: Yes
How to Apply for Dover First Start Down Payment Assistance Program
Step 1: Call 302-703-0727 for information and to apply. Borrower must have at least $1,000 of their own cash (excluding gifts). Must use an FHA, VA, or Conventional loan as the first mortgage.
Notes
Funded through CDBG and city general funds. All borrowers on the loan must have a minimum 620 credit score.