Most down payment assistance is a loan in disguise — a second lien, a forgiveness clock, or strings attached. Hoper is different: eligible buyers earn up to 3.5% of the purchase price as income that's actually theirs.
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Nothing to pay back — not a second loan
Your mortgage rate stays the same
Available in most states
Works for purchase or refinance
DPA programs can help — but the fine print is where they cost you. Here's how the two compare, side by side.
3.5% of the purchase price (up to $13,000) paid to you
No— it's yours to keep
No second lien, no forgiveness clock
Broad eligibility
Your mortgage rate stays the same
Includes an owned solar system
A share of down payment / closing costs, amounts vary
Often a repayable second loan, or forgivable only if you stay 5–10 years
Frequently include second liens, occupancy terms, recapture rules
Usually strict income caps
Some increase your mortgage rate
None
Hoper isn't a one-time check. We pair earned income, education, mentorship, and owned solar into a single program — all built to set you up for long-term financial success.
You buy or refinance with a standard FHA loan — the same path you may already be on.
You go in prepared. We walk you through the numbers, the process, and what to expect before you ever sign.
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Because of that structure, eligible participants earn up to 3.5% of the purchase price as 1099 income — yours to keep.
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The support doesn't stop at closing. One-on-one guidance helps you stay on solid financial footing as a new homeowner.
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A fully-owned solar system is bundled into your mortgage (allowed under FHA's solar-energy policy). You own it outright.
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The solar you own lowers your energy costs over time — value that stays with the home.
Hoper is a homeownership research program —not a lender and not a DPA program. The FHA + owned-solar structure is what lets eligible participants receive up to 3.5% of the purchase price — up to $13,000.
See If You QualifyWhat you do, and exactly what you get in return.
Use an FHA loan (buying or refinancing)
Buy or refinance in an eligible state
Complete pre-closing education and post-closing mentorship
Install a fully-owned solar system
Up to $13,000 in income that's yours to keep. A solar system you own outright — and lower energy bills for years
A stronger financial foundation: the knowledge, habits, and one-on-one support to thrive as a homeowner, not just qualify as one
Answer a few questions and get your number.
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