First-Time Homebuyer Programs in San Antonio: What You Need to Know for 2025

Buying your first home is one of the most exciting—and sometimes overwhelming—steps you’ll ever take. Between saving for a down payment, navigating mortgage options, and understanding local programs, there’s a lot to consider. 

The good news: If you’re purchasing your first home in San Antonio, several programs can make the process more affordable and accessible. 
With nearly two decades of experience guiding new buyers, Tami Price, REALTOR®, outlines the most valuable first-time homebuyer programs available in 2025, along with practical insights for qualifying and planning your purchase. 

What Defines a First-Time Homebuyer? 

You may qualify as a first-time buyer even if you’ve owned a home before. 
Under most federal and state guidelines, a first-time homebuyer is defined as anyone who has not owned a principal residence in the past three years. 

This definition allows many relocating buyers, separated service members, or long-term renters to qualify for special financing and assistance. 

Top First-Time Homebuyer Programs in San Antonio for 2025 

1. TSAHC (Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation) 

Overview: 
The TSAHC Home Sweet Texas and Homes for Texas Heroes programs provide down payment and closing cost assistance through grants or forgivable second liens. 

Benefits: 

• Up to 5% of the loan amount toward down payment or closing costs. 

• Available for FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional loans. 

• Options for teachers, healthcare workers, and military members. 

Eligibility: 

• Minimum credit score: 620. 

• Must meet income and purchase price limits for your county. 

Why It Works: 
TSAHC offers flexibility—buyers can combine assistance with mortgage tax credits to maximize long-term affordability. 

2. TDHCA (Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs) 

Overview: 
The TDHCA My First Texas Home Program provides low-interest loans and down payment assistance to qualified buyers. 

Benefits: 

• Fixed-rate loans with up to 5% assistance. 

• Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) option for annual tax savings. 

• Statewide availability, including San Antonio and surrounding counties. 

Eligibility: 

• Minimum credit score: 620–640, depending on lender. 

• Income limits vary by household size and county. 

Why It Works: 
This program helps first-time buyers secure stable monthly payments while reducing upfront costs. 

3. City of San Antonio Homeownership Incentive Program (HIP 80 & HIP 120) 

Overview: 
The City of San Antonio’s Homeownership Incentive Program (HIP) provides financial assistance for down payment and closing costs for income-qualified buyers purchasing within city limits. 

Benefits: 

• Up to $30,000 in assistance for eligible applicants. 

• No repayment required after five years of ownership. 

• Can be combined with other programs like TSAHC or TDHCA for greater benefit. 

Eligibility: 

• Income limits apply (80% or 120% of Area Median Income). 

• Must purchase within San Antonio city boundaries. 

Why It Works: 
HIP programs help bridge the gap for buyers who can afford monthly payments but need help covering upfront costs. 

4. VA Home Loan Program 

Overview: 
For military members, veterans, and eligible surviving spouses, the VA Home Loan remains one of the most powerful tools for first-time buyers. 

Benefits: 

• No down payment required. 

• No private mortgage insurance (PMI). 

• Competitive interest rates. 

• Assumable by qualified buyers in the future. 

Eligibility: 

• Active-duty service member, veteran, or qualifying spouse. 

• Valid Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the Department of Veterans Affairs. 

Why It Works: 
The VA loan provides long-term affordability and flexibility, especially for military families relocating under PCS orders to Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA). 

5. USDA Rural Development Loan 

Overview: 
The USDA loan supports home purchases in rural or suburban areas near San Antonio. Many communities just outside city limits—such as Castroville, Cibolo, and Boerne—may qualify. 

Benefits: 

• Zero down payment. 

• Competitive interest rates. 

• Flexible credit requirements. 

Eligibility: 

• Income limits based on household size. 

• Property must be in a USDA-eligible area. 

Why It Works: 
This program helps buyers access affordable homeownership just beyond San Antonio’s urban core. 

Additional Local and Lender-Based Assistance 

Some San Antonio lenders offer internal grant or bond programs for qualified first-time buyers. 
Examples include: 

• Rate buydown incentives for new construction homes. 

• Grant matching for savings contributions. 

• Closing-cost credits for specific mortgage products. 

Before choosing a lender, ask about local partnerships with city or state programs to ensure you capture every available benefit. 

Preparing to Qualify as a First-Time Buyer 

To make the most of these programs, start with preparation. 

Tami Price, REALTOR®, recommends: 

• Checking your credit score early to correct any errors. 

• Saving at least 2–3% of the purchase price for earnest money, inspections, and moving costs. 

• Obtaining a pre-approval from a lender familiar with San Antonio assistance programs. 

• Working with a Realtor experienced in coordinating with lenders, title companies, and city agencies. 

With the right guidance, many first-time buyers close on their homes with little or no down payment. 

Why Partnering With a Local Expert Matters 

Each assistance program has unique timelines, paperwork, and eligibility requirements. 
As an experienced REALTOR®, Tami Price helps buyers: 

• Match the right program to their situation. 

• Communicate efficiently with lenders and program administrators. 

• Identify neighborhoods and new construction options compatible with program limits. 

Her local expertise ensures no step is missed—from pre-approval to closing day. 

The Bottom Line 

Buying your first home in San Antonio doesn’t have to feel out of reach. 
With the help of state and local assistance programs, qualified buyers can reduce upfront costs, secure affordable financing, and begin building equity sooner than they thought possible. 

If you’re ready to explore your options or have questions about eligibility, Tami Price, REALTOR®, can help you navigate the process from start to finish. 

Contact Tami Price, Realtor.