Georgia Dream Homeownership Program
Georgia Dream pairs a standard first mortgage with down payment assistance structured as a 0% interest, deferred second mortgage, no monthly payments, repaid only when you sell, refinance, or stop using the home as your primary residence. Standard assistance runs up to $10,000; Protectors, Educators, Nurses (PEN) and Choice borrowers can receive up to $12,500.
What you can get
Standard: the lesser of 5% of the purchase price or $10,000. PEN (protectors, educators, nurses, active military) and Choice (households with a member living with a disability): the lesser of 6% of the purchase price or $12,500. Structured as a 0% interest, non-forgivable second mortgage with deferred repayment.
Who qualifies
- First-time homebuyer (no homeownership in the past 3 years) for the standard program; Peach Plus and Peach Advantage options extend to repeat buyers with higher caps.
- Minimum 640 middle credit score.
- Minimum $1,000 contribution of your own or gift funds toward the purchase.
- Household income and purchase price within program limits, which vary by county.
- Complete a HUD-approved homebuyer education course before closing.
- Primary residence only.
How it pairs with your mortgage
Georgia Dream works with FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional first mortgages through Georgia Dream-approved lenders. DCA also offers Peach Advantage and Peach Plus first-mortgage options that can layer with the assistance. You apply through an approved lender, not directly through the state.
Availability right now
Georgia Dream is an ongoing program, but income limits, purchase price limits, and assistance amounts are updated periodically. Confirm current limits for your county with DCA or a Georgia Dream-approved lender before relying on a figure on this page.
Availability depends on lender participation and current program funding. Program terms change, confirm current details with the administering agency or a participating lender. Educational information only; not a commitment to lend.
Is Georgia Dream a grant?
No, it is a 0% interest second mortgage with no monthly payments. It is repaid when you sell, refinance, transfer the property, or stop using it as your primary residence.
What is the PEN program?
PEN stands for Protectors, Educators, and Nurses, public safety officers, healthcare workers, educators, and active military or veterans qualify for enhanced assistance up to $12,500.
I owned a home before. Am I locked out?
Not necessarily. Peach Plus and Peach Advantage extend down payment help to buyers who are not first-timers, with higher income and price caps.
Loans that pair with this program
Buying in Georgia? Check your eligibility
Tell us about your purchase. We will confirm which assistance programs your scenario qualifies for, usually within one business day.