Hoper Program Explained: Unlock Up To $13,000 In Mortgage

What is the Hoper program? 

The Hoper program, short for Home Ownership, Promotion, Education, and Research, is an FHA-backed initiative designed to help homebuyers achieve sustainable homeownership. By combining financial assistance, education, and energy-efficient upgrades, the program offers buyers up to $13,000 or 3.5% of the home’s purchase price as compensation for participation.

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Benefits Of The Hoper Program 

The Hoper program offers a variety of advantages that combine financial assistance, education, and energy savings. Here are the main benefits: 

• Up to $13,000 in Assistance: Receive up to $13,000 (or 3.5% of the purchase price) as a cash incentive, which can be used toward your down payment, closing costs, or other homebuying expenses. 
• Flexible Use of Funds: Unlike many assistance programs that restrict how the funds can be used, the assistance can go toward almost any homebuying cost. 
• Not a Loan or Grant: The money you receive is 1099 income. You’re compensated for participating in a research study focused on sustainable homeownership. 
• No Perfect Credit Required: The program is designed to be accessible, with flexible credit requirements. 
• Promotes Long-Term Savings: Installing solar panels could help lower energy bills, leading to lasting financial savings over time. 

What can I use the $13,000 assistance for? 

The $13,000 offered through the Hoper Program isn’t limited to one specific use. Eligible buyers can apply these funds toward a range of homebuying costs, such as down payments, closing costs, interest rate buydowns, or even replenishing their savings after the purchase. Essentially, the funds can support nearly any aspect of the homebuying process, helping buyers secure a home with fewer upfront financial hurdles. 

Hoper Program vs Traditional Assistance 

Unlike traditional down payment assistance programs, which typically offer grants or forgivable loans that often come with income caps or repayment terms, the HOPER Program provides assistance in the form of earned 1099 income.  

This means participants aren’t receiving a loan or gift, they’re being compensated for taking part in a research study. The purpose of the study is to evaluate whether combining financial education with energy-efficient housing initiatives, like solar panel installation, leads to more stable homeownership and fewer defaults over time. 

What are the requirements for the Hoper program? 

While the HOPER Program is open to a wide range of buyers, there are a few key eligibility requirements: 

• Take a 4–6 hour financial education course 
• Purchase a single-family primary residence (not a second home or investment property) 
• Complete a 6–8 hour online homebuyer education course 
• Agree to install solar panels that are financed through the FHA loan within a set timeframe after closing. 
• Residency: Must be purchasing in an eligible state (excludes North Dakota, South Dakota, Alabama, Hawaii, and Alaska) 
• No perfect credit needed — flexible credit standards apply 

Using the Hoper Program for Purchase and Refinance 

Home Purchase Assistance 

First-time and repeat homebuyers can use the HOPER Program to lower the upfront costs of buying a home. The financial assistance helps bridge the affordability gap, particularly for buyers who might struggle with traditional down payment and closing costs. 

Mortgage Refinance Support 

For those who already own a home. The Hoper program may also be used for refinancing under specific conditions. By refinancing through the program and installing solar panels, homeowners can potentially reduce monthly payments and energy bills while participating in the research study. 

How it works alongside FHA’s Solar Program 

HOPER pairs seamlessly with the FHA’s existing solar financing options. Solar panel installation costs can be wrapped into the FHA loan, avoiding the need for out-of-pocket payment. This integrated approach makes it easier for homeowners to embrace clean energy while benefiting from the HOPER Program’s financial incentives. 

Is the Hoper loan program right for you? 

The HOPER Program is well-suited for buyers who need help with upfront homebuying costs, homeowners interested in refinancing while making energy-efficient upgrades, and those willing to complete online education courses. It’s also ideal for buyers looking to lower their long-term expenses through clean energy solutions, and for individuals with less-than-perfect credit who still want a shot at affordable homeownership. However, it’s not the right fit for those purchasing in North Dakota, South Dakota, Alabama, Hawaii, or Alaska, or for buyers who are unwilling or unable to install solar panels. Additionally, the program is only available to those purchasing a primary residence. If you meet the criteria and are open to the requirements, HOPER offers a unique blend of financial support and lasting value 

How To Apply for the Hoper Program 

Applying for the Hoper Program with Direct Mortgage Loans is simple and stress-free. Here’s how to get started: 

Connect with Direct Mortgage Loans

Work with our team of FHA-approved professionals who understand the Hoper Program inside and out. We’ll guide you through every step to make sure you get the full benefit of the $13,000 assistance. 

Complete Your Homebuyer Education

Take the required financial literacy and homeownership courses online to prepare for the process and strengthen your financial knowledge. 

Get Pre-Approved

We’ll help you get pre-approved for an FHA loan so you know exactly what you can afford before you start house hunting. 

Choose Your Home

Shop for an eligible single-family home that fits your needs and aligns with the program requirements. 

Finalize the Solar Plan 

As part of your FHA financing, agree to the solar installation plan included with the Hoper Program. 

Close on Your Loan

At closing, you’ll receive your $13,000 in assistance—helping you cover costs like your down payment, closing expenses, or even an interest rate buydown. 

At Direct Mortgage Loans, we make it easy to apply, qualify, and take advantage of every dollar available through the Hoper Program. 

Hoper Program FAQ’s 

Is the Hoper program a grant or a loan? 

The Hoper program is neither a grant or a loan. It’s a compensation-based incentive for taking part in a research study on sustainable homeownership. Participants earn 1099 income, which is considered any taxable income you receive from sources other than a typical employer and for which you will receive a Form 1099, instead of a W-2, for tax reporting purposes.   

What are the homebuyer’s out-of-pocket costs? 

The only required out-of pocket expense is the pre-closing education course which costs $149. There is a post-closing financial mentorship course for $99 but this is optional.  

The solar system is financed through your FHA loan, so no upfront payment is required, and there’s no seller or agent contribution needed. 

Are there income or credit score limits? 

There are no income limits and perfect credit is not required for this program.  

Where is the Hoper program available? 

The Hoper program is available in all U.S. states except North Dakota, South Dakota, Alabama, Hawaii, and Alaska.