Durham Down Payment Assistance Program
How much assistance
Up to $80,000 (Forgivable Loan)
Zero-interest, 15-year forgivable loan with no monthly payment. The loan is fully forgiven after 15 years if you remain in the home as your primary residence. If you sell, refinance, or move before 15 years, repayment may be required.
Eligibility
- Income limits: Household income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) as established by HUD.
- First-time buyer required: Yes — Must not have owned a home within the last three years.
- Geographic restrictions: Home must be located within Durham city limits and serve as the buyer's primary residence.
- Homebuyer education required: Yes
Notes
Funded with $5.7 million from the City of Durham Community Development Department. Applications are processed through the Neighborly software platform by approved participating lenders. The list of approved lenders is maintained on the city's website and was last updated February 18, 2026. This is one of the largest city-level DPA programs in North Carolina by dollar amount. Homebuyer education is required; DHIC and Durham Housing Authority both offer HUD-approved courses in the Durham area.