First-Time Homebuyer Grants & Assistance Programs in Harrisburg, PA

Buying your first home is exciting—but let’s be honest, it’s also expensive. Between the down payment, closing costs, and upfront expenses, many first-time buyers feel priced out before they even start house hunting.

Fortunately, if you’re purchasing in Harrisburg or the greater Central PA region, there’s good news: a variety of grants, low-interest loans, and down payment assistance programs can help make your dream of homeownership a reality.

Let’s break down what’s available and how to take full advantage of these programs.

🏡 What Is First-Time Homebuyer Assistance?

These programs are designed to help individuals and families who are buying their first home—or who haven’t owned a home in the past 3 years—by offering financial support to ease the burden of upfront costs.

Assistance often comes in the form of:

• Grants (which don’t have to be repaid)

• Forgivable loans (which are wiped clean after a set time)

• Deferred loans (no payments until you sell or refinance)

• Tax credits and reduced interest rates

💸 Top First-Time Homebuyer Programs in Harrisburg, PA

1. PHFA (Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency)

PHFA offers several programs that benefit first-time buyers, including:

• HOMEstead Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance Loan

• Keystone Home Loan Program

• Keystone Advantage Assistance Loan

Many of these are forgivable or deferred loans and can be layered with other grant opportunities. Bonus: PHFA-approved lenders offer free homebuyer education, which is often required.

2. City of Harrisburg Homebuyer Assistance Program

Harrisburg residents may qualify for up to $10,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance through the city's Department of Building & Housing Development. This program is income-based and requires completion of a certified homebuyer education class.

3. Federal Home Loan Bank’s First Front Door Program

If you're income-eligible and working with a participating lender, First Front Door can provide a 3-to-1 match of your contribution—up to $5,000 toward down payment and closing costs.

4. USDA Loans (Rural Housing)

Many areas surrounding Harrisburg qualify for zero-down USDA loans, designed to assist moderate-income buyers in designated rural or suburban areas.

5. Employer or Community-Based Programs

Some local employers, credit unions, and nonprofits offer assistance. If you're a first responder, teacher, healthcare worker, or veteran, you may be eligible for additional support or exclusive financing programs.

✅ Do You Qualify?

Most programs require:

• Being a first-time buyer (or not having owned in the last 3 years)

• Meeting income and purchase price limits

• Completing a homebuyer education course

• Working with a certified lender or agency

A local real estate agent (hello 👋) and a PHFA-approved lender can help you determine what you qualify for and how to layer multiple forms of assistance.

🧭 Your Next Steps

1. Get pre-approved with a lender who understands these programs.

2. Take a homebuyer education course—often available online or free locally.

3. Work with a local agent who can find homes that qualify under specific program guidelines.

4. Apply early. Some funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

🏆 Final Word

If buying your first home in Harrisburg feels out of reach—don’t panic. With the right guidance and the power of local homebuyer assistance, you may be closer than you think. At TeamPete Realty Services, we’ve helped hundreds of buyers just like you find a path to homeownership with the help of grants, loans, and smart financing options.

Want help getting started?
Reach out to our team for a no-pressure consultation and let’s talk strategy. (717) 697-7383