Recorded live at the 2025 MBA Annual in Las Vegas, this special episode of Market Pulse explores how down payment assistance programs can help unlock homeownership amid today’s affordability challenges. Joel Rickman of Equifax sits down with Rob Chrane, Founder and CEO of Down Payment Resource, to discuss how lenders, real estate professionals, and technology can better connect buyers to thousands of available programs—and why awareness, education, and alignment are key to getting more families into homes.

In this episode:

What is down payment assistance, and how does it help homebuyers?

Down payment assistance (DPA) includes grants, forgivable loans, and other programs that help cover down payments and closing costs. These programs can significantly reduce upfront cash requirements and make homeownership more accessible—especially for first-time buyers and middle-income households.

How many down payment assistance programs exist today?

According to Down Payment Resource’s latest Homeownership Program Index, there are more than 2,600 active homeownership assistance programs nationwide, administered by over 1,300 state, local, and nonprofit organizations.

Who qualifies for down payment assistance programs?

Eligibility varies by program, but many programs serve more than just low-income buyers. Some programs:

• Have no household income limits
• Support middle-income and “missing middle” buyers
• Apply to manufactured homes and multifamily (2–4 unit) properties
• Are available nationally or in high-cost housing markets

Why don’t more buyers use down payment assistance?

The biggest barrier isn’t funding—it’s awareness. Many buyers (and even industry professionals) don’t know these programs exist. Fragmentation, lack of standardization, and fear of complexity have historically limited adoption.

How do lenders and loan officers use Down Payment Resource?

Down Payment Resource provides tools that:

• Match borrowers and properties with eligible assistance programs
• Integrate with loan origination systems (LOS)
• Surface vetted programs automatically during the lending process
• Help lenders educate borrowers without adding operational burden