Think Homeownership Is Out of Reach? These Programs Can Help.
If you’ve been dreaming about owning a home but worry it’s financially out of reach, you’re not alone. Rising prices and high interest rates have made it harder for many families - especially first-time buyers - to get into the market.
There are programs out there designed to help. The Georgia Dream Homeownership Program and the Savannah DreamMaker Home Purchase Assistance Program offer down payment assistance, affordable financing options, and step-by-step support to make homeownership more attainable. And even if you don’t qualify for one of these government-backed options, many mortgage lenders offer similar programs with their own flexible terms and perks.
Let’s take a closer look at what’s available and how these tools can help you buy your first home.
Georgia Dream Homeownership Program
The Georgia Dream Program, offered through the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA), is aimed at helping first-time buyers and certain others with moderate incomes purchase a home with less financial strain.
Key Highlights:
Down Payment Assistance of $10,000 is available for most buyers and up to $12,500 for public service workers, healthcare providers, active military, or families with a disabled member.
Funds are provided as a zero-interest second mortgage, meaning you don’t make monthly payments on it. It’s only repaid when you sell, refinance, or stop living in the home.
You must contribute at least $1,000 of your own funds toward the purchase, and complete a homebuyer education course.
Who Qualifies?
This program is primarily for first-time buyers, which includes anyone who hasn’t owned a home in the past three years. Some targeted areas allow repeat buyers too. Buyers must also meet income and asset limits, which vary by household size and location, and typically have a credit score of at least 640.
Home price limits are up to $425,000 for most, and even higher under special options like Peach Plus and Peach Select VA, which expand access to higher-income households and veterans.
Savannah DreamMaker Home Purchase Assistance
For buyers looking to stay local, the City of Savannah offers its own program: DreamMaker Home Purchase Assistance. This program works alongside your primary mortgage and provides a second loan of up to $30,000 or up to $50,000 for homes built through city-supported housing partnerships.
Unlike Georgia Dream, DreamMaker loans carry a 2% interest rate but are structured with deferred payments over 30 years, meaning no monthly payments are due unless you sell, refinance, or move out.
Eligibility Requirements:
You must be a first-time buyer purchasing within Savannah city limits.
You’ll need to qualify for a primary mortgage from a lender, and meet city income guidelines.
The property must pass inspections and be free of lead hazards (for older homes).
Buyers must also complete homeownership education and counseling through a HUD-approved provider.
Funding is limited and provided on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s important to apply early and be ready with your paperwork.
Final Thoughts: You Have More Options Than You Think
Homeownership isn’t necessarily out of reach, it just requires the right strategy and support. Whether you qualify for Georgia Dream, Savannah’s DreamMaker program, or choose to work with a mortgage lender offering their own assistance options, there are real paths forward.
If you’re unsure where to start, I’d be happy to connect you with trusted local lenders who work with these programs and help you explore what’s possible based on your financial situation. Buying your first home may be more affordable than you think.
Georgia Dream Homeownership Program – Visit the official page on the Georgia Department of Community Affairs website to explore eligibility requirements, program options, and lender details:
https://dca.georgia.gov/affordable-housing/home-ownership/georgia‑dream‑mortgage‑products
Savannah DreamMaker Home Purchase Assistance – Check out the City of Savannah’s official program page for details on application, funding limits, and income requirements:
https://www.savannahga.gov/3401/DreamMaker‑Home‑Purchase‑Assistance