What is DPA Advantage?

DPA Advantage provides eligible FHA homebuyers with grant assistance equal to 2% or 3.5% of the purchase price, subject to current program requirements and availability.

Does the grant have to be repaid?

The DPA Advantage grant does not require repayment and does not add a second mortgage for the assistance. The first mortgage must still be repaid.

Is it only for first-time buyers?

No. Other eligible buyers may qualify, subject to borrower, property, and program requirements.

What credit score is required?

The program lists a minimum qualifying credit score of 620. A credit score alone does not guarantee approval; income, debts, credit history, and property requirements also apply.

Does assistance cover every homebuying expense?

Not necessarily. Closing costs, prepaid expenses, mortgage insurance, and additional borrower funds may apply. Review the interest rate, monthly payment, and total costs when comparing options.

For Homebuyers

Could Down Payment Assistance Help You Buy a Home?

Saving for a down payment can feel like the biggest hurdle to buying a home. DPA Advantage may help eligible FHA buyers with grant assistance—and it isn’t limited to first-time homebuyers. Watch this short video to learn how it works and why closing costs and your monthly budget still matter.

Let’s talk through your goals, down payment, and monthly budget.

Book a 15-Minute Strategy Call

Watch Lisa Stepp-Seritt explain how the program works, who may qualify, and why closing costs and your monthly budget still matter.

Watch on YouTube

Let’s talk through your goals, down payment, and monthly budget.

Explore My Down Payment Options

Frequently Asked Questions

What is DPA Advantage?: DPA Advantage provides eligible FHA homebuyers with grant assistance equal to 2% or 3.5% of the purchase price, subject to current program requirements and availability.
Does the grant have to be repaid?: The DPA Advantage grant does not require repayment and does not add a second mortgage for the assistance. The first mortgage must still be repaid.
Is it only for first-time buyers?: No. Other eligible buyers may qualify, subject to borrower, property, and program requirements.
What credit score is required?: The program lists a minimum qualifying credit score of 620. A credit score alone does not guarantee approval; income, debts, credit history, and property requirements also apply.
Does assistance cover every homebuying expense?: Not necessarily. Closing costs, prepaid expenses, mortgage insurance, and additional borrower funds may apply. Review the interest rate, monthly payment, and total costs when comparing options.

Keep learning: compare FHA loans and other mortgage programs, see down payment vs. cash to close, or learn how a 2-1 mortgage buydown works.

Let’s talk through your goals, down payment, and monthly budget.

Book a 15-Minute Strategy Call

About the Author

Lisa Stepp-Seritt
Senior Loan Officer | NMLS #680403
Mpire Financial | NMLS #2108504
Equal Housing Opportunity
Learn more about Lisa

For informational purposes only. Not a commitment to lend or a guarantee of approval. All loans and grants are subject to borrower and property eligibility, underwriting, and applicable program requirements. Program availability, grant amounts, rates, fees, and guidelines are subject to change. Geographic restrictions apply. Services offered only where appropriately licensed. DPA Advantage is administered by eLEND and is not affiliated with HUD or FHA.

Subject to borrower and property eligibility, underwriting, and program availability. Closing costs and additional borrower funds may apply. The first mortgage must be repaid. Not a commitment to lend. Program terms are subject to change. DPA Advantage is administered by eLEND and is not affiliated with HUD or FHA.

This website provides general information about consumer and business-purpose mortgage financing. Some programs may be available only for investment or non-owner-occupied properties, while others may have personal occupancy requirements. Program availability, licensing, terms, documentation, and eligibility vary by lender, borrower, property type, occupancy, and state.

All mortgage financing is subject to credit review, income or asset verification when required, appraisal, title, insurance, lender guidelines, and final approval.

Lisa Stepp-Seritt, NMLS #680403
Mpire Financial, NMLS #2108504
Equal Housing Opportunity