DSHA FHA 203k Loan Program: Renovate Your Home with 5% Down Payment Assistance

Are you buying a home in Delaware that needs repairs or updates but short cash to close? The DSHA FHA 203k Limited Loan Program is a powerful mortgage option that allows you to finance both the purchase and renovation of a primary residence—with help from the Delaware State Housing Authority’s (DSHA) 5% down payment and closing cost assistance to make your home purchase more affordable.
This is a top option for first-time homebuyers in Delaware looking to purchase and renovate with one streamlined loan and get a 5% DPA Program. Find out if you qualify today by calling the John Thomas Team at 302-703-0727 or APPLY ONLINE.
What Is the DSHA FHA 203k Limited Loan Program?
The FHA 203k Limited Loan (also known as the Streamline 203k) is a government-backed renovation loan that allows buyers to finance up to $75,000 in home repairs and improvements directly into their mortgage. When paired with DSHA’s down payment assistance programs, you can buy and improve a home with less out of pocket.

Key Features of the DSHA FHA 203k Loan Program:
- FHA 203k Limited loan version only
- Renovations capped at $75,000
- Must use either the DSHA Welcome Home FHA Loan or the DSHA Home Again FHA Loan
- Up to 5% Down Payment Assistance from DSHA
- For owner-occupied homes in Delaware only
- Available for primary residence purchases
- Minimum credit score requirement typically 640 or higher
- Income limits and purchase price limits may apply
This program is offered through the Delaware State Housing Authority in conjunction with a DSHA Approved Lender such as the John Thomas Team with Primary Residential Mortgage.
Who Is Eligible for the DSHA FHA 203k Limited Program?
This loan program is ideal for the following Delaware Home Buyers:
- First-time homebuyers in Delaware
- Repeat homebuyers in Delaware
- Buyers with limited cash for renovations and for down payment & closing costs
- Anyone purchasing a fixer-upper or outdated home that needs upgrades
- Buyers who qualify for the DSHA’s First State Home Loan Down payment assistance program
You must occupy the property as your primary residence and meet the credit, income and program guidelines set by DSHA.
What Renovations Are Allowed Under the FHA 203k Limited Loan?
The FHA 203k Limited loan is designed for non-structural improvements that enhance livability, safety, or cosmetic appeal.

Eligible projects include:
- Roof replacement or repairs
- Heating and air conditioning upgrades
- Flooring and carpeting
- Kitchen or bathroom updates
- New appliances
- Painting (interior and exterior)
- Energy-efficient improvements
- Accessibility upgrades
Luxury upgrades (like pools or hot tubs) and major structural changes are not allowed. All work must be completed by a licensed contractor approved through the lender process.
How the 5% Down Payment Assistance Works
When you use the DSHA FHA 203k Limited Loan, you must pair it with either the:
Both programs offer 5% of your total loan amount in down payment and closing cost assistance through the DSHA First State Home Loan DPA Program, provided as a second mortgage with 0% interest. There are no payments required and is termed a silent second mortgage. The loan only has to be repaid when you refinance or sell the home.
This assistance can be used to cover:
- FHA’s required 3.5% down payment
- Closing costs
- Prepaid taxes and insurance
Benefits of the DSHA FHA 203k Loan in Delaware
Here’s why Delaware homebuyers are taking advantage of this unique mortgage opportunity:
- Finance renovations into your mortgage with one loan
- Access up to $75,000 for upgrades and repairs
- Receive 5% in down payment and closing cost help
- Build instant equity by improving your home at purchase
- Buy homes that are overlooked due to repair needs
- Take advantage of affordable home prices in Delaware
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or just looking for more affordable options as repeat or move up buyer, this loan makes it possible to turn a fixer-upper into your dream home—without draining your savings.
Ready to Get Started Today with a DSHA FHA 203k Loan?
If you’re interested in purchasing a home in Delaware that needs a little work—and want to take advantage of DSHA’s down payment assistance—the FHA 203k Limited Loan may be the right fit. Get started today by calling the John Thomas Team at 302-703-0727 or APPLY ONLINE.
Want to know the current interest rates, you can find them on the DSHA Website at KissYourLandLordGoodBye.com