At New Horizons Lending, we believe that the people who serve our Texas communities—teachers, firefighters, nurses, police officers, and veterans—deserve more than just gratitude. They deserve access to the tools and resources that make homeownership possible.

If you’re a public servant in Texas, you may qualify forTexas homebuying programs that offer down payment assistance, low-interest mortgage options, and tax credits. In this guide, we break down the top housing assistance programs available in 2025 and howNew Horizons Lending can help you navigate them with ease.

Why Texas Public Servants Get Special Housing Support

Texas understands the financial challenges faced by our essential workers. In response, the state has created several housing initiatives to make buying a home more affordable and accessible for those in public service.

Whether you're buying your first home or upgrading to a bigger space for your family, New Horizons Lending can connect you with the right state-backed program—and make the process smooth, simple, and stress-free.

Housing Programs for Public Servants in Texas (2025 Edition)

This is one of the most powerful tools available to public servants in Texas—and one we work with frequently at New Horizons Lending.

You may qualify if you are a:

• Full-time teacher or school employee (K–12)
• Police officer, sheriff, or correctional officer
• Firefighter or EMS professional
• Nurse, paramedic, or healthcare technician
• Veteran or active-duty military member

Benefits include:

 ✅ Up to 5% of your loan in down payment and closing cost assistance

 ✅ Below-market, fixed-rate mortgages

 ✅ Can be used with FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional loans

 ✅ No first-time homebuyer requirement

Bonus: First-time buyers may also qualify for a Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC)—a federal tax credit that could save you up to $2,000 a year.

If you don’t fall into one of the public servant categories, but your income qualifies, you may still be eligible for this program.

Great for:

• Low- to moderate-income Texans who don’t qualify for Homes for Texas Heroes
• First-time and repeat homebuyers 

Offered through New Horizons Lending, this program includes the same powerful down payment assistance and interest rate options.

As a participating lender, New Horizons Lending also helps buyers take advantage of TDHCA’s “My First Texas Home” program.

Best for:

• First-time buyers (or those who haven’t owned a home in the last 3 years)

 Features:

• Up to 5% down payment and closing cost assistance
• Fixed-rate FHA, VA, and USDA loans
• Option to include an MCC for long-term tax savings

This program has income and purchase price limits that vary by county, and we’ll help you determine what applies to your situation.

In many Texas cities, including San Antonio, San Marcos, and Schertz, there are additional local programs you may qualify for on top of TSAHC or TDHCA benefits.

These can include:

• Forgivable down payment grants
• Reduced property tax programs
• Special neighborhood incentives for first responders or educators

At New Horizons Lending, wecombine Texas state and local programsto help you get the most value possible when buying your home.

How to Get Started With New Horizons Lending

Working with New Horizons Lending means you don’t have to figure this out alone. Here’s how we make the process simple:

1. We help you find the right program based on your profession, location, and income.
2. We handle the paperwork and qualification process, so you don’t miss a single benefit.
3. We connect you with trusted real estate partners if you need help finding a home.
4. We keep you informed and empowered every step of the way.

Public Servant Housing Program FAQs

Do I have to repay the down payment assistance?

Some programs are forgivable after a few years. Others may be repaid only if you sell or refinance early. We’ll walk you through the terms upfront.

Is New Horizons Lending a TSAHC-approved lender?

Yes! We’re proud to partner with TSAHC and TDHCA to bring these valuable benefits to Texas public servants.

Can I combine these programs with other offers?

Absolutely. We specialize in stacking programs to get you the best deal possible.

Take the First Step Toward Homeownership Today

At New Horizons Lending, our mission is to help the people who serve Texas communities achieve the dream of homeownership. With the right support, programs, and lending partner by your side, you don’t have to put that dream off any longer.

Contact us today for a free eligibility check and custom quote. Let’s open the door to your new home together!