How Arlington MIPAP works
MIPAP is a loan at 0% interest, deferred 30 years, with shared appreciation. It is up to 25% of the price, capped at $120,000 for 1-3 people or $130,000 for 4 or more.
You must be a first-time buyer (3 years). The 2026 income limits run from $93,040 for 1 person to $154,160 for 6 people, and the maximum price is $650,000.
You contribute 1%, may have liquid assets up to $50,000, and take the Virginia Housing class. You need a conventional first mortgage from a Virginia Housing-approved lender, obtained before the MIPAP application.
Key benefits
0% interest
The loan carries no interest and is deferred 30 years.
Up to 25% of the price
Capped at $120,000 (1-3 people) or $130,000 (4+).
Small required contribution
Your contribution is 1%.
The steps
Take the Virginia Housing class
The class is required.
Get your conventional first mortgage
From a Virginia Housing-approved lender, before the MIPAP application.
Check income, assets and price
2026 income limits $93,040 (1 person) to $154,160 (6 people), liquid assets up to $50,000, maximum price $650,000.
Apply for MIPAP
Apply once your first mortgage is in place.
Watch out for
Applying before the first mortgage
The conventional first mortgage must be obtained before the MIPAP application.
Shopping above the price cap
The maximum price is $650,000.
Forgetting shared appreciation
The loan is 0% interest but includes shared appreciation.
Frequently asked questions
Is MIPAP a grant?
No. It is a 0% interest loan, deferred 30 years, with shared appreciation.
How much can I get?
Up to 25% of the price, capped at $120,000 for 1-3 people or $130,000 for 4 or more.
What first mortgage do I need?
A conventional first mortgage from a Virginia Housing-approved lender, obtained before the MIPAP application.
Is there an asset limit?
Liquid assets can be up to $50,000.
See if MIPAP fits you
Answer a few quick questions to see which Virginia programs you may qualify for.
Check If You May Qualify
Find Programs I May Qualify ForProgram details change frequently — verify current guidelines with a licensed lender; this is not a commitment to lend or a guarantee of eligibility.
Last updated: October 2026. Licensed in VA, MD and DC. Not affiliated with Virginia Housing, the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development, or any county or city housing office.
Related programs
Source: Arlington County (arlingtonva.us). Checked 2026-10-02.