Virginia homebuyers can access up to $9,625 in down payment assistance through the Virginia Housing (formerly VHDA). On the state's $421,882 median home price, that covers roughly 11% of a standard 20% down payment. Virginia has 2 state DPA programs total.
Primary Program: Virginia Housing Down Payment Assistance Grant
maximum assistance
True grant — no repayment ever. This money does not need to be paid back under any circumstances.
- Administering Agency
- Virginia Housing (formerly VHDA)
- Income Limit
- 80% of Area Median Income
- Purchase Price Cap
- $726,200
- Repayment Required
- N/A — this is a true grant.
Additional Virginia DPA Programs
Community Heroes Grant
Grant$3,850
True grant — no repayment ever. This money does not need to be paid back under any circumstances.
Apply / Learn MoreHow Down Payment Assistance Works
Most state DPA programs are layered on top of a first mortgage — you apply through an approved lender who originates both the primary loan and the DPA second lien at the same closing. The DPA funds reduce the cash you need upfront.
Grants
Free money — no repayment ever. Typically the smallest amounts but highest value.
Forgivable Loans
Balance forgiven after a set period (usually 3–15 years) if you stay in the home. Selling early triggers repayment.
Deferred Loans
No monthly payments. Balance due when you sell, refinance, or pay off your mortgage.
Down Payment Calculator
Down Payment Planner
Virginia median pre-loaded
Your Savings Plan
Timeline
14.1 yrs
saving $500/mo
No PMI at 20% down
20% or more avoids private mortgage insurance entirely.
Estimate only — does not include investment returns on savings.
Full Calculator →Frequently Asked Questions
What down payment assistance is available in Virginia?
Virginia's primary DPA program is the Virginia Housing Down Payment Assistance Grant, administered by the Virginia Housing (formerly VHDA). It provides up to $9,625 as a grant. True grant — no repayment ever. This money does not need to be paid back under any circumstances. Additional programs include Community Heroes Grant.
How much down payment do I need in Virginia after using DPA?
On a $421,882 home (Virginia median), a 20% down payment is $84,376. With the Virginia Housing Down Payment Assistance Grant covering $9,625, your remaining gap would be $74,751. Many buyers combine DPA with a 3–5% conventional or FHA loan to reduce their cash needed further.
Do I have to repay Virginia down payment assistance?
True grant — no repayment ever. This money does not need to be paid back under any circumstances.
Can I combine Virginia DPA with other assistance programs?
Yes — Virginia's DPA programs can generally be combined ("stacked") with local city and county assistance programs, employer homebuyer benefits, and federal programs. Check with an approved lender or HUD-approved counselor to identify all programs you qualify for.
What are the income limits for Virginia down payment assistance?
The Virginia Housing Down Payment Assistance Grant requires income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for your county. AMI limits vary by location and household size. Your lender or the Virginia Housing (formerly VHDA) can confirm the exact limit for your area.
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