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Home Buyer Down Payment Grants for Single Mothers in Arizona

Home Buyer Down Payment Grants for Single Mothers in Arizona

Last updated: September 2025

If you’re a single mom in Arizona and you want the shortest path to real, current down payment help, start here. Every program listed below links to its official page, and each section ends with backup steps if funds are out or you don’t qualify today.


If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

  • Check live availability now: Use the state’s one‑stop pages for the statewide programs at [Arizona Department of Housing – Programs for Homebuyers], confirm the rural and county options at [Arizona IDA – Arizona Is Home], and verify statewide year‑round help at [Arizona IDA – HOME Plus]. Call to confirm funding before you house‑hunt. (housing.az.gov)
  • Pick your local lane (Phoenix/Tucson/Maricopa/Pima): For Phoenix/Maricopa, compare [Home in Five Advantage] with the City of Phoenix [Open Doors Down Payment Assistance] and call a program line today; for Tucson/Pima, review the [Pima Tucson Homebuyer’s Solution] and the City of Tucson’s [Down Payment Assistance Program]. Lock in an intake slot even if you’re still saving. (phoenixida.fmwps.com)
  • Book a HUD‑approved housing counselor appointment: Get a fast pre‑purchase check with [HUD Arizona – Find a Housing Counselor], then ask for lender‑ready documents and a same‑week game plan from [Trellis] or [Chicanos Por La Causa (CPLC) Home Lending]. This reduces denials and helps you reserve grant funds on time. (hud.gov)

Quick help box — key contacts to keep handy

  • State housing info and navigation: Call the [Arizona Department of Housing] at 1-602-771-1000, use the [ADOH contact form] for program questions, and browse the [HUD Arizona Field Office] page for counseling and escalation paths. (hud.gov)
  • Phoenix–Maricopa program phones: [Home in Five Advantage] general info 1-602-834-5226 ext. 2, [Phoenix IDA] main 1-480-482-1086, and [City of Phoenix Housing Department] 1-602-262-6794. (homein5advantage.com)
  • Tucson–Pima program phones: [City of Tucson Housing & Community Development] DPA 1-520-791-4171, the [Tucson IDA] down payment portal, and the [Pima Tucson Homebuyer’s Solution] help tools and lender list. (tucsonaz.gov)
  • USDA and Tribal options: [USDA Rural Development – Arizona] Single‑Family Housing programs 1-602-280-8765, [HUD Section 184 Loan] info line 1-800-561-5913, and [Arizona HUD ONAP contact page] for tribal housing links. (rd.usda.gov)
  • Consumer protection and verification: Check licenses with the [Arizona Department of Real Estate], report scams to the [Arizona Attorney General – Consumer Complaints], and get neutral guidance from the [Consumer Financial Protection Bureau – Home Loan Toolkit]. (azre.gov)

Who this guide is for

You’re busy, time‑strapped, and need straight answers on programs that actually fund closings. The pages for [Arizona IDA HOME Plus], [Arizona Is Home], and [HUD’s Arizona portal] are the backbone of this guide; we also pull in city/county pages like [Phoenix Open Doors] and [Tucson DPA] so you can match yourself to the right lane in minutes. Always confirm funding and rules before you apply. (arizonaida.com)

Reality Check

Grant dollars come and go. Some programs, like [Arizona Is Home] in Maricopa and Pima, run in phases and can pause when funds are reserved; others like [HOME Plus] run year‑round but shift assistance percentages with market rates. Expect daily or monthly changes and call to verify capacity. (azgovernor.gov)

The fastest paths to down payment help in Arizona

Start with the program that best fits your county and income. Use the quick comparison table below, then click into the official pages.

Arizona down payment programs at a glance

Program Max help and structure Who it’s for Where it works Key steps
[Arizona IDA – HOME Plus] Up to 4% in down payment/closing help with a fixed‑rate first mortgage; education required; income cap applies Broad eligibility, not limited to first‑time only All counties statewide Find a participating lender, complete class, lock rate, and reserve DPA; confirm your income cap on the page
[Arizona Is Home – Rural (via AZ IDA)] Below‑market 30‑year rate plus 4% DPA; first‑time buyer; ≤80% AMI Rural‑county buyers at or below 80% AMI All counties except Maricopa and Pima Work with an approved lender through AZ IDA and complete HUD‑certified class
[Arizona Is Home – County (Maricopa/Pima)] Silent second DPA; Phoenix/Maricopa offers 3%–7% of price; Tucson/Pima offers up to $9,000; first‑time buyer ≤120% AMI; county‑specific rules Maricopa County & Pima County Follow the ADOH county links; pair with local IDA program where offered
[Home in Five Advantage] Up to 5% DPA; extra for certain eligible groups; education required Income/credit rules; owner‑occupancy Maricopa County (incl. Phoenix) Apply through participating lenders; complete 8‑hour class
[Pima Tucson Homebuyer’s Solution] 0%–5% DPA; forgivable second in 3 years for most loans; VA/USDA DPA is a grant Income/credit rules; owner‑occupancy Pima County (incl. Tucson) Work with a trained lender; complete HUD‑certified class
[City of Phoenix – Open Doors DPA] Up to 10% of price (capped) as 0% deferred loan; HOME rules apply ≤80% AMI; price cap applies City of Phoenix limits Complete 8‑hour class plus one‑on‑one counseling; submit through participating partners
[City of Tucson – DPA] Up to 20% of price as deferred loan; price caps; reserves and ratios apply ≤80% AMI; contribution and reserves required City of Tucson & Pima County (excl. tribal lands) Complete HUD‑certified counseling; property must pass checks

Each cell above links to its official page so you can verify current amounts, income limits, and daily rate sheets. Program dollars and assistance percentages can change without notice—always call the listed offices to confirm current availability before you make an offer. (arizonaida.com)

What the newest state programs look like

Arizona has layered statewide support through [Arizona Is Home] and long‑standing help through [HOME Plus]. According to the state’s program page, Arizona Is Home provides up to 30,000forfirst‑timebuyersatorbelow8030,000 for first‑time buyers at or below 80% AMI and up to 20,000 for those at 81%–120% AMI as a silent second, plus mortgage rate buydowns, while the rural lane combines below‑market rates with 4% DPA in every county except Maricopa and Pima. (housing.az.gov)

In August 2025, the Governor’s Office announced an expansion that pairs Arizona Is Home with county IDA programs: Pima/Tucson offers up to 9,000pereligiblebuyer,whilePhoenix/Maricopapairingsofferroughly39,000 per eligible buyer, while Phoenix/Maricopa pairings offer roughly 3%–7% of the purchase price through local mechanisms. That press release also notes an 18 million total investment to extend access. Always verify that funds remain, since county allocations can fill quickly. (azgovernor.gov)

For year‑round baseline coverage, [HOME Plus] remains Arizona’s statewide workhorse with up to 4% DPA, an income cap posted by the [Arizona IDA], and more than 300 participating lenders. You must complete a homebuyer education course; your lender will guide you through the reservation process at rate‑lock. (arizonaida.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work

If statewide dollars are paused, jump to your county or city program like [Home in Five] in Maricopa or [Pima Tucson Homebuyer’s Solution] in Pima, and ask a [HUD‑approved counseling agency] to help you pair local and federal options. If none of those are open, ask lenders about FHLBank‑member grants like [FHLBank San Francisco – WISH] that flow through credit unions and banks and can stack with city help. (phoenixida.fmwps.com)

County and city programs that matter

Phoenix and Maricopa County — can you close with Home in Five or Open Doors today

Start with [Home in Five Advantage] if you want a straightforward DPA layered on your first mortgage; the Phoenix IDA notes grants up to 5% of the loan amount with required education, income limits, and occupancy rules. If you buy within city limits and meet HOME rules, compare the [City of Phoenix Open Doors DPA], which offers up to 10% of purchase price (capped) as a 0% deferred, forgivable loan with price caps and counseling. Keep the [Phoenix IDA] phone number and the [Home in Five contact page] handy for lender intake. (phoenixida.fmwps.com)

Typical timeline: reserve the assistance when your lender locks your rate, complete an 8‑hour class, and let the lender submit your DPA documents alongside your first mortgage. Expect roughly 30–45 days to close with 7–15 business days for program approvals after the file is complete; ask your loan officer for today’s queue time. For affordable builds and scattered‑site options, you can also monitor [Phoenix Housing Department] news and projects and community builds developed with [Trellis]. (phoenix.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If Home in Five income or price rules block you, ask your lender to pivot to [HOME Plus], check the county’s [HUD counseling list] for an agency that can pre‑check your debt‑to‑income, and consider community land trust homes through [Newtown CDC CLT] to reduce the price and required cash to close. (arizonaida.com)

Tucson and Pima County — which program gets you to the finish line faster

Compare two lanes: the [Pima Tucson Homebuyer’s Solution] through the Pima & Tucson IDAs and the [City of Tucson Down Payment Assistance Program]. PTHS offers 0%–5% DPA, with the second lien forgiven after three years for conventional/FHA and immediate DPA grants for VA/USDA loans, while the City’s DPA can cover up to 20% of the price with reserves, ratios, and price caps. Use the [Tucson IDA] site to track Arizona Is Home add‑ons in Pima when available. (pimatucsonhomebuyers.com)

PTHS rates and DPA percentages refresh daily and lenders can lock for up to 70 days; average assistance has been around $14,000, but your amount depends on rate and product. You must complete a HUD‑approved class; PTHS lists acceptable courses and lenders on its site. For city DPA, plan for property inspections and affordability periods. (pimatucsonhomebuyers.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If city funding pauses, ask your lender about [HOME Plus], use [HUD counseling in Arizona] to identify stackable assistance, and check for time‑limited local offerings like the Tucson/Pima [Arizona Is Home – $9,000 tranche] when announced. (arizonaida.com)

Beyond Phoenix & Tucson — rural and regional routes that work

For rural counties (Apache, Cochise, Coconino, Gila, Graham, Greenlee, La Paz, Mohave, Navajo, Pinal, Santa Cruz, Yavapai, Yuma), the rural lane of [Arizona Is Home via AZ IDA] provides a below‑market fixed rate paired with 4% DPA, targeted to households at or below 80% AMI. Confirm your county’s AMI and the daily offerings with your lender, then combine with [HUD housing counseling] for document prep if you’re short on time. (housing.az.gov)

If you bank with a credit union, ask whether it’s a member of [FHLBank San Francisco] because WISH and the newer Middle‑Income DPA grants can add significant cash. In 2025, FHLBank SF reported 10millioninmiddle‑incomegrantsacrossitsdistrictwithupto10 million in middle‑income grants across its district with up to 50,000 per household through participating members, and WISH matching grants up to the FHFA cap (≈$30,806) depending on the year’s allocation. These funds go fast each spring, so ask your CU or bank if they participated this year. (fhlbsf.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your county’s allocation is tapped out, pivot to [HOME Plus], call the [USDA Rural Development – Arizona] housing line to see if your target town still qualifies for USDA maps, and ask [HUD AZ] to help you find a counselor with grant‑stacking experience. (arizonaida.com)

How the money actually moves — and what to expect

Most Arizona DPA programs pair a fixed‑rate first mortgage with either a forgivable second, a silent second due on sale, or a true grant. First you qualify with a participating lender, then you complete homebuyer education, and finally your lender locks your rate and reserves the assistance. The state’s [HOME Plus] page and [Arizona Is Home] overview explain that assistance amounts and rate buydowns shift with the market and funding cycles. County programs like [Home in Five Advantage] and [PTHS] publish separate limits and timelines for locks, price caps, and forgiveness. (arizonaida.com)

Expect 30–45 days from contract to closing when your documents are complete and the property passes underwriting. For city‑run loans like [Phoenix Open Doors] and [Tucson DPA], budget extra days for file review, affordability documentation, and any required inspections. Always confirm the “reservation to clear‑to‑close” timeline with your lender on day one. (phoenix.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your counselor from [HUD’s Arizona directory] to review your file for quick fixes, have your lender check a backup like [HOME Plus], and if needed, push your seller for a short extension with proof of DPA approval in process. If timelines blow up, consider pausing and using [Newtown CDC’s CLT] pipeline or a later phase of [Arizona Is Home]. (hud.gov)

Federal and tribal options you can stack or substitute

If a grant alone won’t get you to the finish line, pair it with federal mortgages and tribal products that reduce cash needed.

  • USDA (rural) — 0% down first mortgage

    Use [USDA Rural Development – Arizona] for Section 502 loans and confirm county eligibility with a USDA‑approved lender. Many single moms in rural zip codes pair USDA with city or bank grants; talk to the RD state office at 1-602-280-8765 to find local contacts. (rd.usda.gov)

  • VA (veterans) — 0% down first mortgage

    Women veterans can stack VA loans with grants. The [VA Phoenix Regional Loan Center] and the [VA Home Loans RLC Contact Page] provide help lines and email contacts; a VA loan can pair with programs like [PTHS] or [Home in Five] if the lender allows. (benefits.va.gov)

  • HUD Section 184 (tribal members) — low down payment with flexible underwriting

    Native mothers enrolled in a federally recognized Tribe can use [HUD Section 184 Loans] on or off trust land; OLG has a toll‑free line at 1-800-561-5913, and you can search [approved lenders and tribal areas] on HUD’s site. Pairing Section 184 with local DPA is possible—ask your lender to confirm. (hud.gov)

  • Community Land Trust (CLT) — lower price, less cash

    In Maricopa County, the [Newtown CDC CLT] keeps homes permanently affordable and often pairs with WISH and city funds; education, counseling, and a modest buyer contribution apply. For affordable builds elsewhere, contact your local [Habitat for Humanity affiliate] and ask about sweat‑equity and closing‑cost grants. (newtowncdc.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you don’t qualify for USDA/VA/184, ask a counselor listed on [HUD’s Arizona page] to scope out conventional 3%‑down products and lender grants. Some banks and credit unions tied to [FHLBank San Francisco] have spring grant windows that can be layered with [HOME Plus]. (hud.gov)

Required documents, steps, and realistic wait times

Use this step‑by‑step table to avoid the most common holdups.

Steps, documents, and timing

Step What you do Key documents Typical timing
Pre‑screen Call a [HUD‑approved counselor], pick your program, and check income/price caps Photo ID, last 2 months’ pay stubs, last 2 months’ bank statements 1–3 business days for appointment
Lender pre‑approval Apply with a participating lender listed by [HOME Plus], [Home in Five], or [PTHS] Two years W‑2s, 30 days pay stubs, benefits award letters, child support orders if used for income 1–5 business days (faster if docs ready)
Education Complete 8‑hour class from [HUD counseling list] or program‑approved platforms Completion certificate Same day to 1 week depending on class
Reserve DPA Lender locks rate and reserves the assistance via [AZ IDA portal] or local system Signed disclosures; class certificate; program affidavits Same day to 3 business days
Underwriting Processor collects conditions and clears file to close Updated pay stubs/bank statements; appraisal report; insurance binder 7–15 business days typical
Closing Sign both first loan and DPA second/grant Final CD; wiring instructions; IDs 1 day

Program files stall when documents are missing, ratios change, or appraisals are late. Keep your counselor on the group email with your loan officer so issues get solved fast. (hud.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If approvals lag beyond 15 business days, ask the lender to escalate with the [program administrator] and copy your [HUD counselor]. If you risk losing earnest money, ask the seller for a 7‑day extension and provide proof of DPA approval in process from [Arizona IDA] or your city. (arizonaida.com)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Over‑income by a hair: Always confirm the current AMI limits on the [ADOH Arizona Is Home] page and your city’s DPA chart; don’t guess. Ask a [HUD counselor] to calculate with overtime, bonuses, and child support to avoid a last‑minute denial. (housing.az.gov)
  • Wrong property type or ZIP: Some programs exclude manufactured homes or require city limits; read the property rules on [Phoenix Open Doors] and [Tucson DPA] and confirm addresses with your lender. [Home in Five] covers Maricopa County broadly, but manufactured homes are typically excluded. (phoenix.gov)
  • No time for the class: Your file won’t fund without the certificate. Schedule early using [HUD’s class locator], or approved platforms linked on [PTHS] and [HOME Plus]. (hud.gov)
  • Chasing rumors: Social posts often recycle closed programs. Confirm the status directly on [Arizona IDA], [ADOH’s buyer programs], or your county IDA like [Tucson IDA] before paying for inspections. (arizonaida.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you keep hitting roadblocks, pivot to [HOME Plus], ask about [FHLBank San Francisco WISH] through your bank, or consider [Newtown’s CLT] to lower the price and reduce cash needed. (arizonaida.com)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

  • Where to check live funding: [ADOH – Programs for Homebuyers], [Arizona IDA – HOME Plus], and county pages like [Home in Five] and [PTHS]. Set bookmarks and recheck weekly. (housing.az.gov)
  • Where to book counseling: [HUD Arizona – Find a Counselor], plus trusted nonprofits like [Trellis] and [CPLC Home Lending] for bilingual help and mortgage options. (hud.gov)
  • Federal/tribal stackers: [USDA RD Arizona] for 0% down in rural areas, [VA Home Loans RLC] for veterans, and [HUD Section 184] for tribal members. (rd.usda.gov)

Application checklist — print or screenshot

  • Photo ID and SSN docs: Driver’s license and Social Security cards for all borrowers; see [HUD counseling checklist] and your city’s [DPA application] for exact needs. (hud.gov)
  • Income proof: Last 30 days’ pay stubs, 2 years W‑2s/1099s, award letters; confirm format on [Home in Five requirements] and [PTHS lender tools]. (mcida.com)
  • Assets: Last 2 months bank statements; down payment gift letter if used; match documentation to [HOME Plus] and [Phoenix Open Doors]. (arizonaida.com)
  • Housing counseling certificate: Complete the 8‑hour class via [HUD‑approved agencies] or program‑listed courses on [PTHS]. (hud.gov)
  • Purchase documents: Signed purchase contract, insurance binder, appraisal, and title fees; your lender submits through [Arizona IDA systems] or city portals. (arizonaida.com)

Troubleshooting — if your application gets denied

  • Income too high for a specific program: Switch to [HOME Plus] if the cap is higher, or use a lender grant like [FHLBank SF WISH] through a participating bank or CU. Ask your [HUD counselor] to re‑run eligibility with accurate household composition. (arizonaida.com)
  • Credit or DTI too tight: Ask about a 60–90 day plan from [Trellis] or [CPLC Home Lending], then revisit [Home in Five] or [PTHS] with a lower debt load. Keep your file warm with your lender while you clean up tradelines. (trellisaz.org)
  • Property not eligible: Move the search into city limits for [Open Doors] or out to county for [HOME Plus]; confirm property type rules on program pages before paying for inspections. (phoenix.gov)

Resources by region — where to go near you

Phoenix and West Valley — down payment help today

Use [Home in Five Advantage] for county‑wide purchases, compare [Phoenix Open Doors] inside city limits, and verify lender lists on the [Phoenix IDA] website. If you need utility or rent relief while you prep to buy, call [Wildfire AZ – Community Action Agencies] to stabilize and keep saving. (phoenixida.fmwps.com)

Tucson and Pima County — locking funds without delays

Start with [Pima Tucson Homebuyer’s Solution] for quick locks, verify city rules on [Tucson DPA], and watch the [Tucson IDA] page for Arizona Is Home allocations. For education or tax‑time savings, contact [Family Housing Resources] for local classes and advice. (pimatucsonhomebuyers.com)

Northern Arizona (Flagstaff, Coconino, Navajo) — rural routes and tribal options

Check the rural lane of [Arizona Is Home via AZ IDA] for 4% DPA, confirm USDA eligibility with [USDA RD Arizona], and if you’re a tribal member, ask about [HUD Section 184 loans] through an approved lender. Some tribal housing departments also run homeownership programs; call your local office for details. (housing.az.gov)

Yuma and La Paz — pairing grants with USDA

Ask lenders about the rural [Arizona Is Home] lane, verify USDA maps with [USDA RD Arizona], and check with your credit union about [FHLBank SF grants] in the spring. If you need short‑term bill help while saving, call [211 Arizona – LIHEAP info] or review DES’s [LIHEAP page] to avoid shutoffs. (housing.az.gov)

Pinal County (Casa Grande) — pick the right first step

Use [HOME Plus] when city funds aren’t available, ask CAHRA (the county CAP) via [CAHRA LIHEAP page] for stabilization, and call [USDA RD Arizona] for rural mortgage options if you’re outside urban clusters. (arizonaida.com)

How to avoid scams and protect your deposit

Stick to official pages like [Arizona Department of Housing], [Arizona IDA], and your city’s sites such as [phoenix.gov housing]. Verify professionals at [Arizona Department of Real Estate’s license lookup] and report fraud to the [Arizona Attorney General’s Consumer Complaint portal]. For unbiased mortgage shopping tips and the booklet lenders must give you, download the [CFPB Your Home Loan Toolkit]. (housing.az.gov)

Reality Check

Texts and social ads promising “guaranteed $25k grants” are often lead funnels. Use the official [ADOH] and [AZ IDA] pages first, then verify any bank‑run grant with the bank’s official newsroom or product page and the [FHLBank SF] site if they claim WISH or Middle‑Income funding. When in doubt, call the listed customer‑service number on the official site. (housing.az.gov)

Diverse Communities — tailored notes and resources

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your counselor for lenders comfortable with non‑traditional income and name‑change documentation, and use [HUD’s counselor finder] for agencies with LGBTQ+ cultural competency. For Maricopa, compare [Home in Five] with [Phoenix Open Doors], and confirm fair‑lending questions with the [Arizona Attorney General] if you suspect bias. (hud.gov)
  • Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Request accommodations on applications (“Call for large‑print applications:”) through program coordinators on [ADOH] or city pages like [Tucson DPA], and ask your [HUD counselor] to note reasonable‑accommodation needs in the file. If your child receives SSI, have the counselor document income treatment to avoid errors. (housing.az.gov)
  • Veteran single mothers: Pair [VA home loans via the Phoenix RLC] with [Home in Five] or [PTHS]; both accept VA loans and can deliver grant funds at closing if your lender supports the stack. For accessibility, ask about SAH/HISA grants via [VA housing benefits]. (benefits.va.gov)
  • Immigrant/refugee single moms: Use bilingual agencies like [CPLC Home Lending], confirm ITIN limitations with your lender even when using [HOME Plus], and get legal pointers through [HUD Arizona] links to legal aid if documentation issues arise. (cplc.org)
  • Tribal‑specific resources: Enrolled members can use [HUD Section 184 loans] and may access down‑payment help through tribal housing departments such as the [Salt River Pima‑Maricopa Indian Community Housing Division]; verify policy with your tribe and coordinate with a Section 184 lender. Some tribes or Navajo HIP programs list down‑payment support paths—ask your local office to confirm current rules. (hud.gov)
  • Rural single moms with limited access: The rural [Arizona Is Home lane] targets ≤80% AMI buyers and pairs well with [USDA RD Arizona] when homes qualify. For travel and document barriers, ask your [HUD counselor] about remote classes and e‑sign options. (housing.az.gov)
  • Single fathers (for inclusive households): Most grants are gender‑neutral. Fathers can use [HOME Plus], [Home in Five], and [PTHS] with the same rules; counseling via [HUD Arizona] ensures your file meets the program’s definitions. (arizonaida.com)
  • Language access: Ask for Spanish or interpreter support via [HUD Arizona] and bilingual agencies like [CPLC]; many pages, including [Arizona Is Home] details and [Tucson DPA materials], offer Spanish content. TTY services are available at offices listed on [HUD AZ Field Office]. (hud.gov)

How to stop a utility shutoff in Arizona today while you save for a down payment

If you’re facing a shutoff, apply for energy help immediately so your mortgage savings plan doesn’t collapse. Start at the state’s [DES LIHEAP page], check your utility’s LIHEAP info like [APS LIHEAP], and call [Wildfire AZ] or the [Arizona Residential Utility Consumer Office] for county‑specific contacts and rights. Stabilizing your bills keeps your credit clean for underwriting. (des.az.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use [211 Arizona’s LIHEAP listing] to find a backup intake site, contact your city’s human‑services line like [Phoenix Human Services], and ask your lender whether a small payment plan will satisfy underwriting if a collection appears. (search.211arizona.org)

Real‑world examples

  • A Phoenix single mom combined [Phoenix Open Doors] with [FHLBank SF WISH] through a local lender, covering 22,500plus22,500 plus 29,000 for closing and a rate buydown; nonprofits like [Trellis] often help assemble these stacks. This type of pairing is common in HOT markets when city funds are active. (trellisaz.org)
  • In Tucson, buyers using [PTHS] often target the 3‑year forgiveness track, then refinance later if rates drop. When [Arizona Is Home – Pima] tranches open (like the $9,000 round), lenders layer it for extra cushion. Watch the [Tucson IDA] updates because each tranche has limited slots. (pimatucsonhomebuyers.com)
  • Rural buyers in Yavapai or Mohave counties use [Arizona Is Home – Rural] with 4% DPA and sometimes stack [USDA RD Arizona] first mortgages; this keeps cash to close low while meeting underwriting. Ask your lender to confirm compatibility. (housing.az.gov)

Tables you can use while you shop

Eligibility quick check (snapshot — verify on each program page)

Checkpoint HOME Plus AZ Is Home (Rural) AZ Is Home (Maricopa/Pima) Home in Five PTHS
First‑time only No Yes Yes No No
DPA amount Up to 4% 4% 3%–7% or up to $9,000 Up to 5% 0%–5% (VA/USDA grant)
Income limit Posted by AZ IDA ≤80% AMI ≤120% AMI Program cap applies Program cap applies
Education Required Required Required Required Required

Use this as a map, then click your program’s page for exact numbers; amounts and limits may shift. [HOME Plus] and [ADOH – Programs for Homebuyers] post current cutoffs. (arizonaida.com)

City program highlights (verify before you write an offer)

City Program Max help Notes
Phoenix [Open Doors DPA] Up to 10% (capped) 0% deferred; price cap; 8‑hour class and one‑on‑one counseling
Tucson [City DPA] Up to 20% Deferred; price and reserve rules; inspection and environmental checks
Phoenix/Maricopa [Home in Five] Up to 5% County‑wide; required education; income and DTI caps
Tucson/Pima [PTHS] 0%–5% Second forgivable in 3 years; VA/USDA grant; daily rate sheets

Numbers above are program‑page snapshots; always confirm on the official pages linked in the table. (phoenix.gov)

Layering grants — common stacks that work

Stack Why it works Where to ask
[HOME Plus] + city DPA Baseline statewide plus city loan for more coverage Ask your lender and city housing staff
[Home in Five] + WISH County grant plus bank‑member grant up to FHFA cap Ask your credit union about [FHLBank SF WISH]
[PTHS] + [Arizona Is Home – Pima] County program plus time‑limited state dollars Watch [Tucson IDA] and lender lock windows

Stacking depends on lender overlays; have your [HUD counselor] help you compare scenarios. (fhlbsf.com)

Required documents — where to find exact lists

Document type Where to verify
Income & asset paperwork [Home in Five eligibility] and your lender’s checklist
Class certificate [HUD counseling list] or courses linked on [PTHS]
Program affidavits Lender portals for [AZ IDA] and city DPA packets

Submit clean PDFs to speed approvals and avoid stale docs. (mcida.com)

Who to call — fast contact grid

Need Contact
State housing navigation [ADOH main line – 602‑771‑1000]
Statewide DPA [Arizona IDA – HOME Plus]
Phoenix programs [Phoenix Housing Department – 602‑262‑6794]
Maricopa county DPA [Home in Five – 602‑834‑5226 ext. 2]
Tucson/Pima DPA [City of Tucson HCD – 520‑791‑4171]
Rural & tribal [USDA RD Arizona – 602‑280‑8765] and [HUD Section 184 – 1‑800‑561‑5913]

These are official numbers from program pages and agency directories; call during business hours for quickest help. (hud.gov)

FAQs — Arizona down payment help for single mothers

  • How much down payment help can I really get in 2025 in Arizona

    The state’s [Arizona Is Home] offers up to 30,000for≤8030,000 for ≤80% AMI and up to 20,000 for 81%–120% AMI as a silent second, plus rural 4% DPA via [AZ IDA] outside Maricopa/Pima; [HOME Plus] offers up to 4% year‑round. City/county programs add more: [Home in Five] up to 5%, [Tucson DPA] up to 20% of price, and [Phoenix Open Doors] up to 10% with caps. Always check the live program page before you write an offer. (housing.az.gov)

  • Can I combine multiple grants and programs at once

    Often yes. Common stacks include [Home in Five] plus [FHLBank SF WISH] (if your bank participates), or [PTHS] plus a [Tucson/Pima Arizona Is Home] tranche when available. Lender overlays apply; have a [HUD counselor] and your loan officer confirm compatibility. (fhlbsf.com)

  • What if I’m over the income limit by a small amount

    Switch lanes to [HOME Plus] if its cap works, move the search area if a city cap is tighter, and ask a [HUD counselor] to recalc income correctly (overtime/child support rules vary). Some lenders also offer credits or spring grants via [FHLBank SF] that don’t follow city limits. (arizonaida.com)

  • Do I have to be a first‑time homebuyer

    Not always. [HOME Plus], [Home in Five], and [PTHS] accept repeat buyers who meet program and income rules, while [Arizona Is Home] is first‑time by HUD definition. Verify on each page and ask your lender to confirm. (arizonaida.com)

  • How long will this take and when should I start the class

    Start the 8‑hour class immediately via [HUD’s counselor list] and hold your certificate. Expect ~30–45 days to close after contract if your paperwork is clean; program approvals can take 7–15 business days depending on volume. City programs like [Phoenix Open Doors] and [Tucson DPA] may add a few days for their internal checks. (hud.gov)

  • Can I buy new construction or a manufactured home

    Many programs allow both site‑built and new homes; some exclude manufactured housing. Read the property rules on [Home in Five eligibility], check [PTHS property rules], and ask your lender to confirm early. (mcida.com)

  • Are there special options for veterans or tribal members

    Yes. Veterans can pair [VA loans via Phoenix RLC] with county or state DPA; tribal members can use [HUD Section 184] and sometimes tribal housing support. Ask your counselor to coordinate with your tribe or the [HUD ONAP contacts]. (benefits.va.gov)

  • Where do I find a safe lender and avoid predatory offers

    Use participating‑lender lists on [HOME Plus], [Home in Five], and [PTHS] pages, verify licenses at the [Arizona Department of Real Estate], and report red flags to the [Arizona Attorney General]. Download the [CFPB Toolkit] for shopping scripts. (arizonaida.com)

  • What bank or credit‑union grants exist in Arizona

    Each spring, some FHLBank SF member banks/CUs offer [WISH] or Middle‑Income grants; ask your CU about 2025 status. Programs can provide up to ≈30,806(WISHcapbyyear)orupto30,806 (WISH cap by year) or up to 50,000 (Middle‑Income) until funds run out. Verify on the bank’s site and [FHLBank SF] news pages. (fhlbsf.com)

  • Is there a one‑page state list I can share with my family

    Yes. Send them the [ADOH buyer programs page], the [Arizona IDA HOME Plus page], and your local program page like [Home in Five] or [PTHS] so they know the official sources and rules. (housing.az.gov)

Local organizations, charities, churches, and support groups

While you save for closing, keep life stable. Use [Wildfire AZ’s county directory] for rent/utility help, call [HUD Arizona] for counseling and legal referrals, and check [Phoenix Housing Department] or [Tucson HCD] for emergency repair or stabilization programs that won’t harm mortgage approval. (wildfireaz.org)

Plan‑B routes if DPA runs out mid‑purchase

If a tranche closes before you fund, your lender can often switch you to [HOME Plus] the same day or move you to a lender grant like [FHLBank SF WISH] if they participate. Ask your [HUD counselor] to update your affordability and to push the seller for a brief extension with proof of program switch. (arizonaida.com)

Spanish summary — Resumen en español

Este resumen fue traducido con herramientas de IA.

Las opciones principales hoy: [Arizona Is Home] del estado ofrece hasta 30,000paracompradoresporprimeraveza≤8030,000 para compradores por primera vez a ≤80% del AMI (o 20,000 para 81%–120%), y en condados rurales ofrece una tasa fija por debajo del mercado con 4% de ayuda para enganche. El programa [HOME Plus], disponible todo el año, ofrece hasta 4% en todo Arizona con educación para compradores. En Phoenix/Maricopa use [Home in Five] o [Open Doors], y en Tucson/Pima compare [PTHS] y [DPA de la Ciudad de Tucson]. Para orientación gratuita, busque una agencia aprobada por [HUD en Arizona]. Llame a [USDA RD Arizona] para hipotecas rurales, al [VA RLC de Phoenix] para veteranas, o a [HUD Sección 184] si es miembro tribal. Verifique disponibilidad antes de aplicar y use [ADOH] y [Arizona IDA] para los detalles más recientes. (housing.az.gov)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

  • [Arizona Department of Housing]
  • [Arizona Industrial Development Authority – HOME Plus]
  • [Home in Five Advantage – Phoenix/Maricopa]
  • [Pima Tucson Homebuyer’s Solution]
  • [City of Phoenix – Open Doors]
  • [City of Tucson – Down Payment Assistance]
  • [USDA Rural Development – Arizona]
  • [HUD Arizona and HUD Section 184]
  • [FHLBank San Francisco – WISH and Middle‑Income Grants] (housing.az.gov)

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

This content is for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal, financial, or lending advice. Program rules change without notice, and funding can pause when fully reserved. Always verify current availability, income limits, and documentation requirements directly with program administrators and your lender using the official pages linked above. If you need personalized guidance, contact a [HUD‑approved housing counselor] and consult licensed professionals as needed. (hud.gov)

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