How Fairfax Down Payment Loan works
The Fairfax County Down Payment Loan is a loan with shared equity. It is up to $50,000. At payoff you repay the principal plus a share of net appreciation, figured as the loan divided by the price.
You must be a first-time buyer with no ownership interest in 3 years, with income at or below 80% AMI. The 2026 limits run from $91,750 for 1 person to $173,050 for 8.
You need a Virginia Housing first mortgage from a Virginia Housing-approved lender; the county packet describes a conventional first trust loan from Virginia Housing. The home must be your primary residence, and the loan is not for ADU/WDU units.
Funds are limited and first-come, first-served. The county loan may be layered with other loans or grants, and it takes last position.
Key benefits
Up to $50,000
A substantial loan toward buying in Fairfax County.
Can be layered
It may be layered with other loans or grants; the county loan takes last position.
Shared equity instead of monthly interest math
At payoff you repay the principal plus a share of net appreciation (loan divided by price).
The steps
Attend Virginia Housing orientation
Virginia Housing orientation is required.
Meet with a HUD-certified counselor
Counseling with a HUD-certified counselor is required.
Line up a Virginia Housing first mortgage
Work with a Virginia Housing-approved lender.
Apply before you go under contract
You cannot be under contract when you apply.
Watch out for
Signing a contract first
You cannot be under contract when you apply.
Waiting too long
Funds are limited and first-come, first-served.
Buying an ADU/WDU unit
The loan is not for ADU/WDU units.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Fairfax County Down Payment Loan a grant?
No. It is a loan with shared equity. At payoff you repay the principal plus a share of net appreciation (loan divided by price).
Can I apply after I am under contract?
No. You cannot be under contract when you apply.
Can I combine it with other help?
Yes. It may be layered with other loans or grants, and the county loan takes last position.
What are the income limits?
Income must be at or below 80% AMI. The 2026 limits run from $91,750 for 1 person to $173,050 for 8.
See if the Fairfax loan 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: Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority (fairfaxcounty.gov). Checked 2026-10-02.