First Time Home Buyer Grants: Discovering Programs That Reduce Cash Needed

What if the biggest obstacle to homeownership—the down payment—isn’t as insurmountable as you thought?

Across the country, hundreds of down payment assistance (DPA) programs offer grants, forgivable loans, and zero-interest second mortgages to qualified first-time buyers. Some provide thousands of dollars. Others cover entire down payments. Yet most buyers never discover them because they don’t advertise on TV and many lenders won’t mention them.

Let’s change that.

In this guide, you’ll discover:

• The types of DPA programs available nationwide (per HUD resources on down payment assistance)
• How to qualify for grants and forgivable loans (following Fannie Mae HomeReady guidelines)
• The application process from research to approval (based on state housing agency standards)
• Real math showing how assistance changes your buying power
• Common myths that keep buyers from even applying

This isn’t about finding loopholes or cutting corners. It’s about accessing legitimate programs specifically designed to help first-time buyers like you achieve homeownership sooner with less financial stress.

Curious what assistance you qualify for? Schedule a call for a free DPA eligibility screening.

What Is Down Payment Assistance?

Down payment assistance encompasses city, county, state, and national programs designed to reduce the cash buyers need to close on a home. These programs exist specifically to encourage first-time homeownership, support moderate-income households, and help bridge the gap between what you’ve saved and what you need.

DPA comes in several forms:

Forgivable loans provide funds for your down payment that you don’t have to repay if you live in the home for a specified period—typically three to five years. After meeting the residency requirement, the loan is forgiven and essentially becomes a grant.

Zero-interest second mortgages give you funds for down payment and closing costs with no interest charges. You repay this second loan when you sell, refinance, or pay off your first mortgage. There’s no monthly payment on most of these programs.

Grants provide money you never have to repay, regardless of how long you own the home. These are less common but incredibly valuable when available.

Matching savings programs (IDAs – Individual Development Accounts) match your down payment savings at ratios like two-to-one or three-to-one if you complete financial education courses.

The key insight: DPA isn’t charity or government handouts. These programs represent strategic public policy designed to strengthen communities through homeownership. When you use them, you’re participating in programs that benefit both you and your community.

Why Does Down Payment Assistance Matter for First-Time Buyers?

The down payment barrier keeps qualified buyers renting longer than necessary. You might have sufficient income to afford monthly mortgage payments that are lower than your current rent, but lack the cash reserves for a substantial down payment plus closing costs.

Consider the typical scenario: A moderate-income household saves diligently for years, setting aside what they can each month. But while they’re saving, home prices appreciate faster than their savings accumulate. They’re on a treadmill, never quite catching up.

DPA changes this equation fundamentally. Instead of needing years to save a full down payment, you might need only months to save enough to combine with assistance funds. This accelerates your path to homeownership by several years in many cases.

The math reveals the transformation:

Traditional approach requires substantial upfront cash. Even with minimal down payment loans like FHA at low down payment or conventional loans for first-time buyers, you still need several thousand dollars plus closing costs and reserves.

DPA approach reduces your cash requirement dramatically. Some programs cover the entire down payment. Others provide substantial grants that slash what you need from your own savings. Either way, you’re buying sooner with more financial cushion remaining.

Beyond just dollars, DPA provides:

• Faster path to homeownership and equity building
• More cash reserves for emergencies and maintenance
• Reduced financial stress during the buying process
• Ability to pursue better properties in better neighborhoods
• Earlier start on building generational wealth

Use the FHA loan calculator or conventional loan calculator to see how different down payment amounts affect your monthly payment and total cost—then imagine how DPA could change those numbers in your favor.

How Do Different Types of DPA Programs Work?

Understanding the landscape helps you identify which programs best fit your situation. Let’s break down the major categories:

National Programs Available Everywhere

Chenoa Fund provides DPA for FHA buyers nationwide. This program offers assistance covering up to the full down payment requirement for FHA loans. The funds come as a second lien that you repay when you sell or refinance. Available in all states with varying terms based on location.

HomeReady and Home Possible are Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac programs respectively, allowing minimal down payments combined with flexible DPA use. These conventional loan products accept assistance from various sources and work well with state and local grants.

Good Neighbor Next Door offers substantial discounts on HUD-owned properties for teachers, law enforcement, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians. You can purchase eligible homes for half the list price if you commit to living there as your primary residence for three years.

State Housing Finance Agencies

Every state operates at least one agency dedicated to affordable housing and homeownership. These agencies typically offer multiple programs:

• First-time buyer grants (often several thousand dollars)
• Below-market interest rate mortgages
• Down payment assistance loans
• Mortgage credit certificates providing tax credits

For example, California Housing Finance Agency, Florida Housing, Texas Department of Housing, and similar agencies in all states provide varied assistance based on local needs and funding.

To find your state agency, search “[Your State] Housing Finance Agency” or check the National Council of State Housing Agencies directory. Most offer online pre-qualification tools and detailed program descriptions.

Local City and County Programs

Many municipalities offer generous DPA programs funded by local tax revenue, developer contributions, or federal block grants. These programs often provide substantial assistance:

• Major metropolitan areas frequently offer assistance ranging from several thousand to tens of thousands
• Smaller cities and counties provide more modest but still significant amounts
• Some programs target specific neighborhoods for revitalization
• Others focus on particular occupations (teachers, first responders, municipal employees)

Local programs often have more flexible eligibility criteria than national programs, particularly regarding income limits and credit requirements. They may also be less competitive since fewer people know about them.

Employer-Assisted Housing Programs

Larger employers, particularly hospitals, universities, and major corporations, sometimes offer housing assistance to recruit and retain employees. These programs might include:

• Down payment grants or forgivable loans
• Below-market rate mortgages
• Matching savings programs

Check with your HR department to see if your employer offers housing benefits.

Special Population Programs

Targeted assistance exists for:

• Military and Veterans: VA loans already require zero down, but additional programs help with closing costs
• Native Americans: Section 184 loans and tribal housing programs
• Teachers and Educators: Specific grants in many states and cities
• Healthcare Workers: Hospital systems and healthcare organizations often provide assistance
• First Responders: Many jurisdictions offer special programs for police, fire, and emergency medical personnel

If you work in an underserved rural area with a USDA loan, you already have zero down payment, but additional state programs might help with closing costs and repairs.

Who Qualifies for Down Payment Assistance Programs?

Most buyers assume they don’t qualify for DPA—they think they earn too much, have too much in savings, or don’t fit the profile. In reality, eligibility is often broader than expected.

Common Eligibility Requirements

First-time buyer status is the most frequent requirement, though the definition is more flexible than you might think. Most programs define “first-time buyer” as someone who hasn’t owned a primary residence in the past three years. This means:

• If you owned previously but sold over three years ago, you likely qualify
• If you’ve only owned investment property but never a primary residence, you typically qualify
• If your spouse owned before marriage but you didn’t, you may qualify depending on the program
• Some programs don’t require first-time buyer status at all, particularly those targeting specific neighborhoods

Income limits vary significantly by program and location. Many DPA programs cap income at a percentage of area median income (AMI)—commonly ranging from moderate-income to middle-income levels. However:

• Limits adjust based on household size
• Higher-cost areas have higher income limits
• Some programs have no income restrictions
• Teacher, first responder, and military programs often ignore income entirely

Don’t assume you earn too much without checking specific programs in your area. A household earning a solid middle-class income can often still qualify, especially in expensive markets.

Credit requirements for DPA programs typically mirror the underlying loan requirements. If you qualify for the mortgage itself—whether FHA, conventional, VA, or USDA—you can likely find compatible DPA programs.

Property requirements usually specify:

• Must be your primary residence
• Must be located in eligible areas (some programs cover entire states, others only specific cities or neighborhoods)
• Must meet minimum property standards
• May have maximum purchase price limits

Homebuyer education is required by most programs. You’ll complete a course (often available online) covering budgeting, credit, the buying process, and homeownership responsibilities. This typically takes six to eight hours and costs minimally or is free.

What Disqualifies Buyers?

Few factors completely disqualify you, but some create challenges:

• Owning other property you’re not selling (though investment properties owned for longer than the first-time buyer window usually don’t disqualify you)
• Exceeding income limits for income-restricted programs
• Insufficient income to qualify for the underlying mortgage (DPA helps with down payment but doesn’t change income requirements)
• Very recent major credit issues like foreclosure or bankruptcy (though these become eligible after waiting periods)

The key point: Don’t self-disqualify. Apply and let the program administrators make eligibility determinations. You might be surprised.

How Does the DPA Application Process Work?

The application process follows a logical sequence, though specific steps vary by program. Here’s your roadmap from research to funding:

Step 1: Research Available Programs (Weeks 1-2)

Start by identifying programs available in your area:

Begin with your state housing finance agency. Visit their website and review first-time buyer programs. Most offer detailed descriptions, eligibility requirements, and current funding status.

Search for local programs. Contact your city or county housing department. Ask specifically: “What down payment assistance programs are currently accepting applications?” Many maintain waiting lists when funding is depleted, so ask about anticipated funding dates if programs are full.

Explore employer programs. Check with your HR department about housing assistance benefits.

Consult with mortgage professionals who specialize in DPA. Not all loan officers are familiar with all programs—seek out those who actively work with DPA regularly. This is a core expertise at Stairway Mortgage.

Create a spreadsheet tracking:

• Program names and websites
• Eligibility requirements
• Assistance amounts
• Application deadlines or funding windows
• Required documentation
• Processing timelines

Step 2: Complete Homebuyer Education (Weeks 2-3)

Most programs require completion before application. Options include:

• Online courses you complete at your own pace (usually six to eight hours over several days)
• In-person classes often offered by HUD-approved counseling agencies
• One-on-one counseling combining education with personalized guidance

Choose an approved provider—programs specify which certifications they accept. You’ll receive a completion certificate needed for your DPA application.

The education covers valuable content even beyond the requirement: budgeting, mortgage options, the buying process, predatory lending avoidance, and long-term homeownership success strategies.

Step 3: Get Pre-Approved for Your Mortgage (Week 3-4)

You typically need mortgage pre-approval before applying for DPA. Work with a lender experienced in combining DPA with various loan types. The pre-approval confirms:

• You qualify for the mortgage amount needed
• Your debt-to-income ratio allows for the payment
• Your credit meets lender requirements
• You have sufficient reserves after down payment

Pre-approval strengthens your DPA application significantly—administrators know you’re a serious, qualified buyer who will successfully close if they allocate funds to you.

During pre-approval, discuss DPA specifically. Not all loan officers structure deals to accommodate DPA requirements. Ensure yours understands:

• How to layer DPA with your chosen loan type
• Program-specific requirements affecting approval
• Timing coordination between mortgage approval and DPA approval
• Documentation needs that satisfy both programs

Using tools like the down payment assistance calculator helps you model different scenarios before finalizing your approach.

Step 4: Submit Your DPA Application (Week 4-5)

Application requirements vary but typically include:

• Completed application form
• Homebuyer education certificate
• Mortgage pre-approval letter
• Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, W-2s)
• Bank statements showing savings and reserves
• Credit report
• Government-issued ID
• Proof of address/residency

Be meticulous with documentation. Incomplete applications delay processing significantly. Submit clean, organized, complete packages.

Meet deadlines precisely. Many programs operate first-come, first-served within eligibility criteria. Others have specific application windows. Missing deadlines means waiting for the next cycle—potentially months away.

Step 5: Maintain Eligibility While Processing (Weeks 5-8)

While your application processes:

• Don’t change jobs or income status
• Don’t open new credit accounts or take on new debt
• Maintain consistent savings levels
• Keep all bank accounts in your name active
• Respond immediately to any requests for additional information

Most programs reserve funds for approved applicants for a specified period—typically 90 to 180 days. You must find a property and close within this window.

Step 6: Property Search and Purchase (Weeks 8-20)

Once approved for DPA:

• Work with a real estate agent familiar with DPA requirements
• Ensure properties meet program specifications
• Include DPA funding in your offer structure
• Coordinate closing timeline with program requirements

Some programs require you to identify the property before applying (these are often purchase-specific rather than buyer-specific programs). Others approve you first and let you shop within parameters.

Step 7: Closing Coordination (Final 30 Days)

Your lender coordinates funding from both your primary mortgage and DPA program:

• Title company receives wiring instructions for all funding sources
• You review closing disclosure showing how DPA applies
• All liens (primary mortgage and any DPA second liens) record simultaneously
• You receive final accounting of all funds applied

After closing, you receive information about any DPA obligations—typically just maintaining the property as your primary residence for the required period.

This down payment assistance case study shows how a teacher successfully navigated this entire process, purchasing a first home with substantial grant funding that dramatically reduced cash needed at closing.

What Common Myths Keep Buyers from Applying?

Misconceptions prevent many qualified buyers from even exploring DPA. Let’s address the most damaging myths:

Myth: “I make too much money to qualify.”

Reality: Many programs have moderate to middle-income limits that include household incomes well into middle-class ranges. In expensive markets, qualifying incomes can exceed what many consider “moderate.” Additionally, numerous programs—particularly those for teachers, first responders, or military—have no income restrictions at all.

Don’t assume based on your salary. Check actual program limits in your area. You might be pleasantly surprised.

Myth: “DPA is only for people with perfect credit.”

Reality: DPA programs typically require you to qualify for the underlying mortgage, nothing more. If you can get approved for an FHA loan with moderate credit scores, you can likely access DPA programs compatible with FHA. Many buyers with scores in the low to mid range successfully combine DPA with their mortgages.

Myth: “The application process is impossibly complicated.”

Reality: While DPA applications do require documentation and attention to detail, they’re no more complex than mortgage applications themselves. If you can gather tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements for your mortgage, you can handle DPA applications. Moreover, many housing counselors and experienced loan officers guide buyers through the process step-by-step.

Myth: “There’s a catch—I’ll owe huge amounts later.”

Reality: DPA programs are transparent about terms. Forgivable loans specify exactly how long you must remain in the home. Zero-interest second liens explain repayment triggers clearly. There are no hidden traps or surprise obligations. You know all terms before accepting assistance.

The “catch” is simply that you must use the home as your primary residence for the commitment period—which you were planning to do anyway.

Myth: “DPA takes too long and I’ll lose properties I want.”

Reality: Once you’re approved for DPA (which happens before you start shopping), the program doesn’t slow your purchase. You make offers and close on normal timelines. Sellers can’t tell whether your down payment comes from your savings or a DPA program—the money flows the same way at closing.

Pre-approval for both your mortgage and DPA positions you as a strong, ready buyer.

Myth: “I have some savings, so I don’t need DPA.”

Reality: Having savings doesn’t mean you shouldn’t use DPA. Consider this: Would you rather use all your savings for down payment and closing costs, or preserve most of your savings by using DPA? The latter leaves you with stronger reserves for emergencies, home maintenance, and future opportunities.

Many financially savvy buyers use DPA strategically even when they could pay more out of pocket—they’re optimizing their financial position, not just solving a cash shortage problem.

How Does DPA Connect to Different Loan Types?

Understanding how assistance programs interact with various mortgage products helps you optimize your strategy:

FHA Loans and DPA

FHA loans pair exceptionally well with DPA because:

• FHA already requires minimal down payment
• FHA accepts down payment gifts and grants from approved sources
• Many DPA programs specifically design products for FHA buyers
• The combination creates very low barrier-to-entry homeownership

The FHA loan calculator can show you how different down payment amounts affect monthly costs—demonstrating how DPA changes your financial picture.

Conventional Loans and DPA

Conventional loans increasingly accommodate DPA through:

• HomeReady and Home Possible programs designed for first-time buyers with DPA
• Flexibility in gift fund sources
• Competitive terms for buyers using minimal down payments

Conventional loans sometimes offer advantages over FHA for buyers with good credit, even when using DPA.

VA Loans and DPA

VA loans already provide zero down payment for eligible military members and veterans. However, DPA can still help by:

• Covering closing costs
• Providing additional reserves
• Funding minor repairs or improvements

Some veteran-specific programs stack additional benefits on top of standard VA loan benefits.

USDA Loans and DPA

USDA loans also offer zero down payment in eligible rural and suburban areas. Like VA, DPA helps cover:

• Closing costs
• Funding for repairs or improvements
• Building reserves

The combination of USDA and DPA creates remarkable affordability for rural buyers.

Special Purpose Loans and DPA

Some buyers pursue Section 184 loans (for Native Americans) or other specialized products. Most DPA programs can layer with these loans, creating comprehensive solutions for buyers with unique circumstances.

What Happens After You Receive DPA Approval?

Approval marks the beginning of your funded home search, not the end of the process. Here’s what to expect:

Your Approval Period

Most programs reserve funds for you for a specified time—commonly 90 to 180 days, sometimes longer. This gives you time to find the right property without rushing. However, you must close within this window or potentially need to reapply.

During this period:

• Maintain the financial status that qualified you
• Work actively with your real estate agent
• Keep your loan officer informed of your search progress
• Respond promptly to any program administrator check-ins

Property Selection Considerations

Choose properties that satisfy both your lender’s requirements and your DPA program’s specifications:

• Location: Some programs restrict eligible areas
• Property type: Most programs prefer single-family homes or approved condos; investment properties rarely qualify
• Condition: Property must meet minimum standards—some programs require appraisals certifying specific condition levels
• Price: Some programs cap maximum purchase prices

Your real estate agent should understand these parameters before showing properties.

Making Offers

Structure offers to work within your approval parameters:

• Your agent discloses that you’re using DPA if program rules require it (most don’t)
• Offers include standard financing contingencies
• Timeline accommodates any program-specific requirements
• You demonstrate financial strength through pre-approval letters

From the seller’s perspective, your offer looks like any other properly pre-approved buyer. The DPA doesn’t create additional risk or complications for them.

Closing Process

Your lender coordinates all funding sources:

• Primary mortgage funds from your lender
• DPA funds from the program
• Any additional cash from your savings

The title company ensures all liens record properly—your first mortgage in primary position, any DPA second lien in subordinate position. You sign documents for both loans if applicable.

After closing, you receive:

• Complete documentation of all loans and liens
• Information about your DPA obligations (residency requirements, forgiveness schedule, etc.)
• Contact information for ongoing questions

Post-Closing Obligations

Most programs require only that you:

• Maintain the property as your primary residence for the commitment period
• Keep all mortgages current
• Maintain adequate homeowners insurance
• Maintain the property in good condition

Some programs require annual certifications confirming you still occupy the home. These are simple forms taking minutes to complete.

If life changes occur (job relocation, family circumstances requiring sale before the commitment period ends), contact your program administrator immediately. Many programs offer:

• Hardship provisions for genuine emergencies
• Prorated forgiveness (you receive partial forgiveness based on time lived there)
• Repayment plans more favorable than immediate full repayment

Programs exist to help you, not trap you. Administrators work with borrowers facing legitimate challenges.

How Does Stairway Mortgage Help You Find and Access DPA?

Finding and successfully applying for down payment assistance requires specialized knowledge that many loan officers lack. At Stairway Mortgage, DPA expertise is central to how we serve first-time buyers.

We provide comprehensive DPA screening at no cost. Rather than making you research dozens of programs yourself, we evaluate your situation and identify all programs you likely qualify for based on:

• Your location and target purchase areas
• Your income, household size, and financial profile
• Your loan type preferences
• Your timeline and goals

This screening often reveals programs you never knew existed—particularly local city and county programs that don’t advertise widely.

We structure your mortgage to optimize DPA opportunities. Not every loan officer knows how to layer assistance programs with different mortgage types. We ensure:

• Your mortgage application positions you favorably for DPA approval
• Documentation satisfies both mortgage and DPA requirements
• Timeline coordination prevents funding gaps
• All parties communicate effectively throughout the process

We maintain relationships with program administrators. Our regular contact with state, local, and national DPA programs means we understand current funding status, processing times, and any program changes. We can often expedite applications and resolve issues more quickly than buyers working independently.

We continue supporting you after approval. Finding the right property, making competitive offers, and closing successfully all require coordination between your agent, lender, and DPA program. We facilitate this communication, ensuring smooth coordination through closing.

Many of our clients started their journey thinking homeownership was years away due to down payment barriers. DPA compressed that timeline from years to months—and we guided them through every step.

Ready to Discover Your DPA Options?

Down payment assistance transforms impossible into achievable for thousands of first-time buyers annually. The programs exist specifically to help you—taking advantage of them isn’t cutting corners, it’s accessing legitimate resources designed for your situation.

Your next steps:

If you’re actively preparing to buy soon, schedule a call for a free DPA eligibility screening. We’ll identify every program you potentially qualify for and map the optimal path forward.

If you’re earlier in the process, get pre-approved to understand your buying power, then layer DPA opportunities onto that foundation.

If you want to explore scenarios, use our down payment assistance calculator to see how different assistance amounts affect your monthly costs and cash needed at closing.

The money exists. The programs are available. The only question is whether you’ll take advantage of opportunities designed specifically for first-time buyers like you.

Don’t spend years saving unnecessarily when legitimate assistance can accelerate your path to homeownership. Explore your options today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay down payment assistance back?

It depends on the program type. Grants never require repayment. Forgivable loans become grants if you live in the home for the commitment period—typically three to five years. Zero-interest second mortgages require repayment when you sell, refinance, or pay off your first mortgage, but charge no interest and require no monthly payment. The program discloses all terms clearly before you accept assistance, so you know exactly what obligations you’re assuming.

Can I use DPA if I’m not a first-time buyer?

Some programs yes, others no. Many DPA programs define “first-time buyer” as someone who hasn’t owned a primary residence in the past three years—so if you owned long ago or only owned investment property, you often qualify. Additionally, some programs don’t require first-time buyer status at all, particularly those targeting specific neighborhoods for revitalization or programs for teachers and first responders. Check specific program requirements rather than assuming you’re ineligible based on past ownership.

Will using DPA make my offer less competitive?

No—sellers typically can’t tell whether you’re using DPA. Once you’re pre-approved for both your mortgage and DPA, your offer looks identical to any properly pre-qualified buyer. The funding flows the same way at closing regardless of whether your down payment comes from savings or assistance programs. Some buyers even combine personal funds with DPA, further strengthening their financial position. Work with an experienced agent who structures offers to emphasize your strength as a buyer.

How long does it take to get approved for DPA?

Processing times vary from a few weeks to several months depending on the program. National programs with continuous funding often approve within a few weeks. State and local programs with limited funding or specific application windows may take longer. Some programs operate first-come, first-served and can approve quickly, while others batch applications and review them periodically. Start your research early—ideally several months before you plan to buy—to ensure you secure approval and funding when you need it. Your loan officer can provide specific timelines for programs in your area.

Can I use DPA with seller concessions to eliminate all out-of-pocket costs?

Often yes, though specific rules vary by program. Many buyers successfully combine DPA with seller concessions to cover down payment, closing costs, and prepaid items, requiring minimal personal funds at closing. However, you typically need some reserves (savings) remaining after closing—lenders want assurance you can handle unexpected expenses. The combination of DPA and seller concessions creates remarkably affordable entry into homeownership. Use the FHA loan calculator or conventional loan calculator to model different contribution scenarios and see total costs.

What if I get transferred for work before the forgiveness period ends?

Most programs have hardship provisions for genuine emergencies. If you must sell due to job transfer, family circumstances, or other legitimate reasons, contact your program administrator immediately. Many programs offer prorated forgiveness—forgiving a portion based on how long you lived there—or flexible repayment terms less burdensome than immediate full repayment. Programs exist to support homeownership, not trap you. Administrators understand that life circumstances change and typically work with borrowers facing genuine hardships rather than forcing worst-case scenarios.

Also Helpful for First-Time Home Buyers

Programs and Products That Work With DPA:

Explore loan options that pair well with down payment assistance:

• Review FHA loans for minimal down payment and flexible credit
• Consider conventional loans with HomeReady or Home Possible
• Explore VA loans for zero down plus closing cost assistance
• Check USDA loans for rural and suburban zero-down options

Calculate your scenarios with assistance factored in:

• Down payment assistance calculator showing different contribution levels
• FHA loan calculator with minimal down payment options
• Conventional loan calculator modeling various down payment amounts

See real examples of DPA success:

• Down payment assistance case study featuring a teacher’s journey
• FHA loan success story with first-time buyer strategies
• Conventional loan case study showing smart financing

What’s Next in Your Journey?

Now that you understand how DPA works, your path to homeownership likely shortened significantly. But additional strategies can further strengthen your position:

Upcoming decisions and opportunities:

• Combining DPA with gift funds from family for maximum leverage
• Structuring offers that win in competitive markets even with minimal down payment
• Navigating the inspection process and negotiation
• Understanding closing costs and how to minimize them
• Preparing for your first months as a homeowner

Each step builds on the foundation you’re establishing now—finding the best financing strategy that accelerates your path to ownership while maintaining financial stability.

Explore Your Complete Options

Loan Programs for First-Time Buyers:

• Browse all loan programs to compare options that work with DPA
• Explore low down payment options across multiple loan types
• Review specialized programs for specific situations

Tools for Smart Planning:

• Access all calculators to model different scenarios
• Compare purchase calculators across loan types
• Explore affordability tools showing true monthly costs

Success Stories for Inspiration:

• Read all case studies across different buyer situations
• Browse first-time buyer journeys for relatable experiences
• Explore low down payment success across programs

Ready for your free DPA eligibility screening? Schedule a call with a loan advisor who specializes in helping first-time buyers access every available resource.