Closed
Down Payment Assistance Program (DPAP)
Interest-free down payment loan for first-time homebuyers
Last Update: April 21, 2026
Funding available
$ 28,500
Timeline
- Receipt of requests is now closed
Location
Nova Scotia
Overview
This program provides an interest-free loan to help first-time homebuyers in Nova Scotia cover a down payment. Eligible applicants can receive up to 5% of the home purchase price for a first home.
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Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Ensure financial sustainability
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 28,500 $
- Up to 5% of project cost
Timeline
- Receipt of requests is now closed
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Nova Scotia
Legal structures
- Sole proprietorship
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Rural or Northern Residents
- Canadians
- Youth (<40)
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Buying a first home in Nova Scotia
- Using the loan to support the down payment on that home
Documents Needed
- Completed DPAP application form
- Signed affidavit confirming no previous home ownership
- CRA tax slips and Notice of Assessment, or proof of income
- Mortgage pre-approval from an NHA-approved lender
- Agreement of Purchase and Sale and supporting proof of income/employment
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- First-time homebuyers
- Individuals buying a home in Nova Scotia
- Applicants with an insured mortgage pre-approval
Who is not eligible
- Rental property buyers
- Seasonal or recreational property buyers
- Applicants who are not first-time homebuyers
Eligible expenses
- Down payment on the purchase of a first home
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- Closing costs and legal fees
- Taxes and other purchase costs
- Financing or other non-down-payment expenses
Eligible geographic areas
- Nova Scotia
- Halifax Regional Municipality
- Municipality of East Hants
- Municipality of West Hants
- Annapolis Valley
- South Shore
- Yarmouth County
- Northern and Eastern regions of Nova Scotia
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis once complete.
- Program staff assess the application and supporting documents.
- Applicants receive a response within 10 business days.
- If approved, mortgage documents are prepared and sent to the lawyer.
- Repayment starts one month after closing.
Additional information
- The program is administered by the Government of Nova Scotia.
- Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis once complete.
- There is no cost to apply.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Down Payment Assistance Program (DPAP) Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the Down Payment Assistance Program (DPAP). This section explains what the program is, how much funding is available, eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and other important details to help you determine if this grant is right for your business.
What is the Down Payment Assistance Program (DPAP)?
This program provides an interest-free loan to help first-time homebuyers in Nova Scotia cover a down payment. Eligible applicants can receive up to 5% of the home purchase price for a first home.
How much funding can be received?
Down Payment Assistance Program (DPAP) Funds up to 5% of admissible expenses, capped at $28,500 per project.
Who is eligible for the Down Payment Assistance Program (DPAP) program?
To be eligible for the Down Payment Assistance Program (DPAP) program, you must:
First-time homebuyer with insured mortgage pre-approval
Household income below $145,000
Must be able to cover closing costs
What expenses are eligible under Down Payment Assistance Program (DPAP)?
Buying a first home in Nova Scotia
Using the loan to support the down payment on that home
Who can I contact for more information about the Down Payment Assistance Program (DPAP)?
You can contact Government of Nova Scotia by email at none or by phone at 1-844-424-5110.
Where is the Down Payment Assistance Program (DPAP) available?
The Down Payment Assistance Program (DPAP) program is available the province of Nova Scotia.
Is the Down Payment Assistance Program (DPAP) a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Down Payment Assistance Program (DPAP) is a Loans and Capital investments