Low-down options include FHA (often 3.5%), VA ($0 for eligible borrowers), USDA (0% in eligible areas), and conventional programs at 3% for qualified first-time buyers.
Educational Guide
Down Payment & Assistance
Overview of low-down loan options, gift funds, and state or local assistance programs that may help qualified buyers.
Program Highlights
Down Payment & Assistance
Overview of low-down loan options, gift funds, and state or local assistance programs that may help qualified buyers.
- FHA, VA, and USDA low-down paths
- Gift letter basics
- State and local assistance programs
- HomeReady and Home Possible
How It Works
What to Know About Down Payment & Assistance
Gift funds are common - but require a gift letter and proof the donor is not expecting repayment. We verify sourcing before closing so funds are not questioned late in the file.
State and local assistance programs may layer with eligible first loans when guidelines align. HomeReady and Home Possible add conventional paths with income limits. Your loan officer stacks options you actually qualify for.
More Guides
All Guides
- First-Time Buyer Guide Learn more
- Refinance Basics Learn more
- Cash-Out Refinance for Debt Learn more
- Using Equity for Home Improvements Learn more
- Cash-Out for Major Life Expenses Learn more
- Using Equity to Invest Learn more
- Accessing Home Equity Learn more
- Credit & Qualification Tips Learn more
- VA Loan Benefits Explained Learn more
- Rural & Suburban Housing Learn more
- Not Sure Where to Start? Learn more
- Reverse Mortgage Basics Learn more
- Proprietary Reverse Mortgages Learn more
- Commercial Lending Overview Learn more
Ready to Learn More?
Find the Path That Fits You
Use Loan Match for an educational starting point, then connect with a loan officer for guidance on your situation.