Last update: 1/06/2026

These programs can only be handled by approved lenders. If you would like help from a local realtor familiar with the programs and lenders, fill out this form here and I will connect you with one.

I created the form to make it easier to connect and access the programs,, but you should have everything you need to go about it solo with this guide,

Connect with a DPA team

How Down Payment Assistance Works

I need to give a quick overview of how down payment assistance works. After that, the programs are listed.

With down payment assistance, you'll run into two different types:

  • A grant

  • A loan

A Grant

If we meet the qualifications up front, then it's money that does not need to be repaid.

A Loan

If the down payment assistance comes in the form of a loan, then pay attention to the three different types:

  • Repayable

  • Deferred

  • Forgivable

Repayable is just as most imagine. It charges interest over a certain amount of time, with monthly payments until it's paid off.

Deferred loans usually don't require a monthly payment, and typically don't charge interest. It's due in full when you refinance, sell the home, or when it ceases to be your primary residence.

Forgivable loans will disappear if you meet the criteria, which usually comes down to keeping the home as your primary residence for a specific amount of time.

Okay with that, here are the programs!

Arkansas

Arkansas Development Finance Authority (ADFA) Down Payment Assistance

  • Assistance amount: $1,000 to $15,000

  • Use with: ADFA StartSmart or ADFA Move-Up first mortgage

  • Eligible costs: Down payment and closing costs

  • Structure: 10-year second mortgage

  • Interest rate: Matches the first mortgage

  • Cash back: Allowed for prepaid expenses

  • Eligibility: Subject to ADFA income limits

  • Lenders: Must use an ADFA-approved lender

  • Website: https://adfa.arkansas.gov/homeloans

Crawford-Sebastian Homeownership Center (Crawford & Sebastian Counties, incl. Fort Smith)

  • Coverage area: Crawford County and Sebastian County

  • Assistance:
    • Up to $10,000 for down payment and closing costs

    • Up to $40,000 toward purchase price as principal reduction

  • Structure: Deferred, forgivable loan

  • Forgiveness terms: 5, 10, or 15 years depending on assistance amount

  • Occupancy requirement: Primary residence for full forgiveness

  • Eligibility:
    • HUD low/moderate income limits

    • Approved lender required

    • HUD-certified homebuyer education required

  • Contact: (479) 785-2303

  • Website: https://www.cscdc.net/down-payment-closing-assistance/

City of Little Rock Community Development Down Payment Assistance

  • Assistance amount: Up to 6% of purchase price (maximum $10,000)

  • Eligible buyers: Low- to moderate-income first-time homebuyers

  • Location: Properties within Little Rock city limits

  • Structure: Forgivable second loan

  • Forgiveness period: 5 years (equal annual forgiveness)

  • Eligibility:
    • Income at or below 80% AMI

    • Approved homebuyer education required

    • Owner-occupancy for at least 5 years

  • Status note: Program has paused in the past; verify active funding

  • Contact: (501) 371-6825

  • Website: https://www.littlerock.gov/city-administration/city-departments/housing-and-neighborhood/community-development/

City of Jonesboro Grants & Community Development Homeownership Assistance

  • Assistance amount: Up to $5,000

  • Eligible costs: Down payment and closing costs

  • Forgiveness period: Fully forgiven after 3 years of occupancy

  • Eligible buyers:
    • First-time buyers (no homeownership in past 3 years)

    • Must meet HUD income limits

  • Property requirements:
    • Located within Jonesboro city limits

    • Not in a flood zone

    • Must meet HUD quality standards

  • Additional requirements:
    • HUD-approved homebuyer counseling

    • Approved lender required

  • Contact: (870) 336-7170

  • Email: grants@jonesboroAR.gov

  • Website: : https://www.jonesboro.org/155/Homeownership-Assistance

City of Pine Bluff Economic Development Home Buyer Assistance

  • Assistance amounts:
    • Up to $2,000 for down payment

    • Up to $3,000 for closing costs (prepaids excluded)

  • Buyer contribution: Minimum $500 required

  • Eligibility: Income at or below 80% AMI

  • Structure: Deferred-payment loan

  • Repayment trigger: Sale or refinance within 5 years may require repayment

  • Contact: Sarah Caffey, Economic Development Specialist

  • Phone: (870) 543-1820

  • Website https://www.cityofpinebluff-ar.gov/economic-and-community-development-programs

Last update: 01/06/2026

These programs can only be handled by approved lenders. If you would like help from a local realtor familiar with the programs and lenders, fill out this form here and I will connect you with one.

I created the form to make it easier to connect and access the programs,, but you should have everything you need to go about it solo with this guide,