June is National Homeownership Month, a time to celebrate the American dream of homeownership and expand access to the resources that make it possible. In this article, we take a closer look at the Arlington Homebuyer Assistance Program (AHAP)—a local down payment assistance program that helps first-time buyers overcome one of the biggest barriers to homeownership.
Whether you already live in Arlington or are planning a move here, AHAP offers forgivable loans to help with down payment and closing costs. To learn more about how the program works, who qualifies, and why now is always the smart time to start planning your homeownership journey, Dr. Nikky Lewis, Grants Manager for the City of Arlington, offers answers to frequently asked questions about AHAP and tips for first-time homebuyers:
What is AHAP, and how does it help first-time homebuyers?
Dr. Lewis: “For many people, coming up with the down payment is the biggest obstacle to homeownership. AHAP, the Arlington Homebuyer Assistance Program, can help buyers overcome that challenge with a $20,000 forgivable loan that covers both the down payment and closing costs. It’s designed to bridge the homeownership affordability gap and encourage people to put down roots in Arlington.”
How does AHAP work?
Dr. Lewis: “To be eligible for down payment assistance, a buyer’s household income must be at or below 80% of the area median income, which HUD updates annually based on family size. Right now (June 2025), that’s about $83,000 for a household of four, just to give you an idea.
You’ll also need to complete a HUD-certified homebuyer education course, which is essential for understanding the responsibilities of homeownership, and secure a first-tier mortgage from a participating lender. Housing Channel and the Hispanic Real Estate Brokers Association are community organizations that offer free homebuyer education.
Speaking of homebuyer education: I recommend that any first-time buyer—whether or not they’re using a down payment assistance program—take advantage of these courses. They’re a great way to learn about the homebuying process, how to build your credit score, how to work with a realtor, and so much more.”
Do homebuyers have to pay the assistance back?
Dr. Lewis: “The assistance is structured as a forgivable loan, which means if you live in the home for the entire forgiveness period (usually ten years) you won’t have to pay it back. If you sell the home before that time, you’d repay a prorated amount, from the money from your home sale, based on how long you owned the house. The idea is to promote long-term homeownership and stability in our neighborhoods.”
How does someone start the homebuyer assistance process?
Dr. Lewis: “The first step is to sign up for a HUD-certified homebuyer education class. As previously mentioned, we partner with organizations like Housing Channel and the Hispanic Real Estate Brokers Association to offer these classes at no cost to buyers. Once you’ve completed the course, you’ll receive a certificate that’s required to apply for AHAP.
By the way, it’s never too early to get started, even if you’re not sure that homeownership is right for you at this moment. Homeownership is a big life goal, and sometimes it takes a few years to be ready.”
The housing market is tough right now. Is homeownership still possible?
Dr. Lewis: “Homeownership is absolutely still possible, even in a challenging market, and even if you don’t have a high income. Knowledge and preparation are key. The more you understand the process, the better positioned you’ll be to make a successful offer on the right home for you and your family.
Even if you're not quite ready yet, whether it's due to a low credit score, limited income, or a high debt to income ratio, don't lose hope. Your goals are still within reach. The key is to start taking intentional steps today rather than waiting for the elusive ‘someday.’ With focus, discipline, and the right guidance, you can put yourself on the path to success and turn your financial aspirations into reality.
Programs like AHAP can make a big difference for buyers who have good credit but may struggle with upfront costs. It’s one of the many reasons Arlington is proud to be known as The American Dream City!”
What advice do you have for first-time buyers and new homeowners?
Dr. Lewis: “Knowledge is power. Take advantage of those homebuyer education courses—they’ll guide you through every step of the process. Stay organized with key documents like pay stubs, tax returns, and bank statements, and remember that homeownership is an ongoing investment. Keep saving for maintenance and unexpected repairs.
Common first-time homebuyer mistakes tend to center around timing. People put off homeownership because they’re hoping the market improves, or they wait until their lease is about to run out before they’ve even taken the first step. Remember, buying a home takes time. Start now—improve your credit, explore available programs, and contact a realtor to begin your path toward homeownership. You may not find your dream home the first time you purchase, but once you're in the market and building equity, the dream home will eventually find you.”
What’s the most rewarding part of working with AHAP?
Dr. Lewis: “I love seeing families achieve their dreams of homeownership, and I love working with our City partners to make homeownership dreams come true. There’s something special about watching someone get the keys to their first home, knowing they’ve worked hard to get there. It’s not just about a house; it’s about building community, stability, and a stronger Arlington. That’s what makes this work so fulfilling.”
Start your journey to homeownership today!
Additional homeownership resources: