Down payment assistance

Down payment assistance in Arkansas

1 program can help buyers in Arkansas with a down payment and closing costs. Most are for first-time buyers with moderate incomes and are used with a participating lender.

Check which programs fit your situationDown payment assistance finder

ADFA Down Payment Assistance (DPA) Program

Open · Repayable loan

$1,000 to $15,000

A repayable second mortgage with a 10-year amortization term and an interest rate matching the first mortgage, paired with an ADFA StartSmart or Move-Up first mortgage. It is repaid monthly and is not forgiven. Funds can go to down payment, closing costs or principal reduction.

Who qualifies: Must use an ADFA StartSmart or Move-Up first mortgage (Move-Up has no first-time buyer requirement). Qualifying income limit $142,000 for DPA with Move-Up. Purchase price follows first-mortgage conforming limits. Credit score per ADFA program guidelines.

Arkansas Development Finance Authority · Agency website → · Checked 2026-09-30

How assistance usually works

Most programs are a second loan with no monthly payment that is forgiven over time or repaid when you sell or refinance, and some are grants. You usually need a program first mortgage from a participating lender, a homebuyer education course and income under the program’s limit. Apply before you make offers, so your pre-approval reflects the help.

More for Arkansas

Arkansas closing costs Arkansas property taxes Where can I afford to buy in Arkansas?Down payment timeline

Programs change often; confirm the details with the agency.