Every state has down payment or homeownership assistance programs; some states have both. The programs are designed to provide affordable housing opportunities to homebuyers who might not ordinarily be able to afford a house.
Each program can have their own income and eligibility requirements but primarily the programs are available for first-time homebuyers or low-income families.
Keep in mind if you had no ownership in a principal residence in the previous 3 years, you are also considered a first-time homebuyer even if you owned a home prior to that 3-year period.
The programs are not usually administered directly through the State. Instead, they are nonprofit based and handled through a third party agency. The list below will start you on your search but be sure to confirm the program is currently available.
(Source: HUD.gov)
Statewide Programs
Georgia Dream Homeownership Program – low-interest financing, down payment assistance, homebuyer education.
Habitat for Humanity – Habitat affiliates bring homeownership to very low income families.
USDA Rural Development – programs that reduce the cost of homeownership for low and moderate-income families.
Local Programs
Local CDGB contacts – some communities use CDGB funding from HUD to provide assistance to first-time home buyers
Local HOME contacts – some communities use HOME funding from HUD to provide assistance to first-time home buyers
Community HOME Investment Program (CHIP) – some cities and counties use CHIP funding from the state to offer down payment assistance and/or repair assistance. If your community was approved for CHIP funding, contact your local government housing department to learn more.