Bootcamp For Buyers

My First Texas Home

The My First Texas Home program, offered by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA), is designed to help first-time homebuyers achieve affordable and sustainable homeownership. By providing competitive fixed-rate mortgage options and financial assistance for down payments and closing costs, the program reduces financial barriers for eligible buyers across Texas.

Benefits

  • Offers 30-year fixed-rate mortgages with competitive interest rates, ensuring stable and predictable monthly payments.
  • Provides down payment and closing cost assistance of up to 5% of the loan amount, reducing upfront expenses for buyers.
  • Supports first-time homebuyers and those purchasing in federally designated targeted areas.
  • Allows participants to combine the program with a Texas Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) for additional tax benefits.
  • Encourages long-term housing stability and equity building for low- and moderate-income households.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Applicants must be first-time homebuyers or individuals who have not owned a home in the past three years, unless purchasing in targeted areas.
  • Income limits apply and vary based on household size and the location of the property within Texas.
  • The property must be located in Texas and used as the buyer’s primary residence.
  • A minimum credit score of 620 is required, with lender-specific underwriting criteria also applicable.
  • Participants must complete a TDHCA-approved homebuyer education course to prepare for the responsibilities of homeownership.

Additional Information

The My First Texas Home program is an essential resource for first-time buyers seeking to achieve homeownership while minimizing upfront financial challenges. By offering affordable mortgage options and financial assistance, the program empowers eligible buyers to secure stable housing and invest in their futures. Administered by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs, this initiative promotes sustainable homeownership and strengthens communities across the state.

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Program

What is the My First Texas Home program?

The My First Texas Home program offers low-interest 30-year fixed-rate mortgages and down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers and eligible veterans in Texas.

Who qualifies for the My First Texas Home program?

Eligibility is based on being a first-time homebuyer, a veteran, or purchasing in a targeted area. Applicants must also meet income limits, purchase price limits, and credit requirements.

How much down payment assistance is available?

The program provides up to 5% of the loan amount as down payment and closing cost assistance, structured as a second lien loan with zero interest and deferred payments.

What defines a first-time homebuyer?

A first-time homebuyer is someone who has not owned a primary residence in the past three years. Veterans and buyers in targeted areas may qualify regardless of previous homeownership.

What is the minimum credit score required?

Applicants generally need a credit score of at least 620 to qualify. Higher credit scores may improve eligibility and access to better loan terms.

Are there income limits for the program?

Yes, income limits vary based on household size and the county where the property is located. These limits are designed to assist low-to-moderate-income families and individuals.

What types of properties are eligible for the program?

Eligible properties include single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums. Manufactured homes may also qualify if they meet program guidelines and are permanently affixed to a foundation.

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What is the maximum purchase price allowed?

As of 2025, the maximum purchase price varies by county but generally ranges from $350,000 to $550,000, depending on program criteria.

Does the down payment assistance need to be repaid?

The assistance is provided as a second lien loan with zero interest. Repayment is deferred and may be required if the buyer sells, refinances, or moves out of the home before the loan term ends.

Is homebuyer education required?

Yes, completing a homebuyer education course is mandatory to ensure buyers are prepared for the financial and practical responsibilities of homeownership.

Can the program help with closing costs?

Yes, the down payment assistance can also be applied toward eligible closing costs, reducing the overall upfront expenses for buyers.

Are there location restrictions for properties?

Yes, properties must be located in Texas and meet program requirements for eligibility and type.

Can the program be used for new construction homes?

Yes, newly constructed homes are eligible as long as they meet the program’s purchase price and property requirements.

Are there debt-to-income (DTI) ratio requirements?

The maximum allowable DTI ratio is generally 45%, but exceptions may be made for applicants with strong credit or other compensating factors.

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Can the My First Texas Home program be combined with other assistance programs?

Yes, the program can often be combined with other state or local assistance programs to maximize benefits for eligible homebuyers.

How does the second lien loan for down payment assistance work?

The second lien loan provides assistance with no interest and deferred payments. Repayment is required only if the home is sold, refinanced, or no longer used as the buyer’s primary residence.

Can this program be used with FHA, VA, or USDA loans?

Yes, the My First Texas Home program can be combined with FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional loans, provided all eligibility requirements are met.

What are the benefits of the My First Texas Home program?

The program offers affordable mortgage rates, financial assistance for upfront costs, and access to homebuyer education, helping Texans achieve sustainable homeownership.

Do veterans have additional benefits under this program?

Yes, eligible veterans may qualify for program benefits without meeting the first-time homebuyer requirement, making it easier for them to access affordable homeownership.

What is the process for applying to the My First Texas Home program?

Applicants work with an approved lender who will verify eligibility, guide them through the application process, and help secure both the mortgage and any available down payment assistance.

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