Down Payment Assistance Programs in Georgia

Georgia has one of the most widely used state homebuyer assistance programs in the Southeast. The Georgia Dream Homeownership Program, administered by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, provides down payment assistance to first-time buyers and others across the state.

Georgia Dream Standard Assistance The standard Georgia Dream program provides $10,000 in down payment assistance as a second mortgage with 0 percent interest and no monthly payments. The assistance is due only when the first mortgage is paid off, when the home is sold, or when the buyer stops living in the home as their primary residence.

Georgia Dream PEN Program The PEN (Protecting, Educating, Nurturing) program provides $20,000 in down payment assistance for buyers who are public protectors (police, firefighters), educators, healthcare workers, or military members. The structure is otherwise the same as standard Georgia Dream.

Georgia Dream Choice Program The Choice program offers $20,000 in down payment assistance for buyers who have a disability or a household member with a disability.

Atlanta-Specific Programs The City of Atlanta has its own Homebuyer Assistance Program that provides additional assistance to buyers purchasing within city limits. This can sometimes be layered with Georgia Dream for greater total assistance.

Homebuyer Education Requirement Georgia Dream requires buyers to attend a homebuyer education program through a HUD-approved counseling agency. This can often be done online or in person.

Connecting With a Homexa® Agent Homexa® agents in Georgia are familiar with Georgia Dream and other local programs. Connect with a Homexa® agent to identify your options and maximize your buying power.