First-Time Homebuyer Guide:
Harris County, Texas
2026 income limits, purchase price caps, DPA programs, and a readiness check for Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land MSA. See the numbers that decide whether buying in Harris County is worth pursuing now.
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2026 Income & Purchase Price Limits
These limits help determine whether you may fit TSAHC, TDHCA, and local DPA programs in Harris County. Final eligibility comes from program documents and participating lenders.
| Category | 1–2 Person HH | 3+ Person HH |
|---|---|---|
| 100% AMI Income Limit | $101,100 | — |
| 115% AMI Income Limit | — | $116,265 |
| 120% AMI (targeted areas) | $121,320 | $141,540 |
| Max Purchase Price (non-targeted) | $544,232 | |
| Max Purchase Price (targeted area) | $665,173 | |
Source freshness: county limit data last reviewed June 2026. Program limits, funding, and assistance structures can change.
Loan Programs Available in Harris County
Six paths to homeownership — each with county-specific numbers. Click any program to see the full breakdown.
Conventional Loan
The standard path for buyers with strong credit and savings
FHA Loan
A government-backed path for buyers building credit or savings
DPA + Conventional
DPADown payment assistance stacked on a conventional loan
DPA + FHA
DPADown payment assistance for buyers with lower credit scores
VA Loan
VeteranThe most powerful home loan benefit for veterans and active military
USDA Rural Development Loan
$0 down for buyers purchasing in eligible rural and suburban areas
Down Payment Assistance Programs in Harris County
These programs are active for Harris County buyers and can provide up to $30,000 in assistance toward your down payment and closing costs.
Eligibility depends on income, credit score, and first-time buyer status. Use the readiness tool to find out which programs you qualify for.
Frequently Asked Questions — Harris County Homebuyers
What is the income limit for first-time homebuyer programs in Harris County?
For 1–2 person households, the 100% AMI limit for Harris County is currently $101,100 per year. For 3+ person households, the 115% AMI limit is currently $116,265. Income limits are tied to the Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land MSA; First Home AI last reviewed this data against Texas program sources in June 2026.
How much down payment assistance is available in Harris County in 2026?
Qualified buyers in Harris County may be able to use statewide programs such as TSAHC Home Sweet Texas, TSAHC Homes for Texas Heroes, TDHCA My First Texas Home, and TDHCA My Choice Texas Home. Assistance can be structured differently by program and lender, so the readiness check is a planning step, not an approval.
What credit score do I need to buy a home in Harris County?
It depends on your loan program. FHA loans start at 580. DPA programs require 620+. Conventional loans require 620+ (740+ for best rates). VA and USDA loans work with 580–620+. Many buyers in Harris County qualify for DPA programs at 620 — that's the sweet spot for first-timers in this market.
What is the maximum purchase price for DPA programs in Harris County?
The non-targeted area limit is $544,232. For targeted areas in Harris County, the limit increases to $665,173. The current median home price of $330,000 is well within these limits, leaving room for buyers across most price ranges.
Is Harris County a good place for first-time buyers in 2026?
Harris County is part of the Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land MSA, one of the most active real estate markets in Texas. With strong inventory compared to 2022 peaks and multiple DPA programs available, buyers who are financially ready have more negotiating power than in recent years. The key is knowing exactly which programs you qualify for before you start shopping.
Also Buying in Nearby Counties?
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