Forgivable PATH seconds provide 3.5% assistance with no monthly payment on the aid layer. Repayable seconds offer 3.5% or 5%. Assistance is based on the lower of the sales price or appraised value.
PATH DPA is calculated on the lower of the sales price or appraised value — not an inflated contract price above the appraisal.
| Sales price / appraised value (lower of) | 3.5% assistance | 5% assistance (repayable only) |
|---|---|---|
| $200,000 | $7,000 | $10,000 |
| $250,000 | $8,750 | $12,500 |
| $300,000 | $10,500 | $15,000 |
| $350,000 | $12,250 | $17,500 |
| $400,000 | $14,000 | $20,000 |
Example: a $300,000 qualifying value at 5% repayable assistance = $15,000 toward down payment or closing costs.
Assistance percentage depends on the second-lien structure you qualify for — not just how much cash you want at closing.
Both the 3-year and 5-year forgivable options provide 3.5% assistance with no monthly payment on the aid layer. Minimum credit score is 640.
The 10-year amortizing and 10-year balloon repayable options can deliver 3.5% or 5% assistance. Minimum credit score is 660, and a monthly payment is required on the second.
PATH DPA is meant for down payment and closing-cost needs on your purchase. It cannot pay off consumer debt to qualify, and it cannot cover an appraisal shortage when the home appraises below the contract price.
Ryan and Steve size your cash-to-close early — so you know whether 3.5% forgivable or up to 5% repayable is the better fit before you write an offer.
Related Luminate Path guides and DPA options.
Program overview — in-house DPA with FHA or USDA first mortgages.
Which second-lien structure unlocks 3.5% vs up to 5%.
640 forgivable · 660 repayable minimums.
Forgiveness timeline and early-exit payoff rules.
Full guide — first mortgages, second options, and universal rules.
Compare PATH with other DPA programs.
How USDA 30-year fixed pairs with PATH assistance.
Ryan & Steve will model 3.5% forgivable vs 3.5% or 5% repayable PATH assistance against your purchase price and first mortgage.
Luminate Path programs are subject to borrower qualification, property eligibility, and lender approval. Rates, terms, and program availability may change without notice and are not available in all states. This page is educational — your scenario is underwritten against current guidelines.