First-Time Homebuyer Guide:
Hays County, Texas
Real income limits, purchase price caps, and DPA program details for Austin-Round Rock MSA. No fluff — just the numbers that matter for buyers in Hays County right now.
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2026 Income & Purchase Price Limits
These limits determine whether you qualify for TSAHC, TDHCA, and most Texas DPA programs in Hays County.
| Category | 1–2 Person HH | 3+ Person HH |
|---|---|---|
| 100% AMI Income Limit | $133,800 | — |
| 115% AMI Income Limit | — | $153,870 |
| 120% AMI (targeted areas) | $160,560 | $187,320 |
| Max Purchase Price (non-targeted) | $593,363 | |
| Max Purchase Price (targeted area) | $725,222 | |
Loan Programs Available in Hays 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 Hays County
These programs are active for Hays 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 — Hays County Homebuyers
What is the income limit for first-time homebuyer programs in Hays County?
For 1–2 person households, the 100% AMI limit is $133,800 per year. For 3+ person households, the 115% AMI limit is $153,870. Income limits are tied to the Austin-Round Rock MSA and apply to TSAHC, TDHCA, and most Texas DPA programs.
How much down payment assistance is available in Hays County in 2026?
Qualified first-time buyers in Hays County can receive $15,000–$30,000 in assistance through programs like TSAHC My First Texas Home and TDHCA My Choice Texas Home. The assistance may be structured as a forgivable grant or a low-interest second mortgage depending on which program you qualify for.
What credit score do I need to buy a home in Hays 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 Hays 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 Hays County?
The non-targeted area limit is $593,363. For targeted areas in Hays County, the limit increases to $725,222. The current median home price of $385,000 is well within these limits, leaving room for buyers across most price ranges.
Is Hays County a good place for first-time buyers in 2026?
Hays County is part of the Austin-Round Rock 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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