Down payment help, explained simply.

There are four common shapes that down payment help takes: grants you do not pay back, second-mortgage loans that may be deferred or forgivable, employer assistance, and gift funds from a family member. Each comes with its own rules about who qualifies, what the funds can be used for, and how the help affects your loan pricing.

Closing-cost assistance is sometimes bundled with down payment help. Both reduce the cash you need at the closing table.

State housing finance agencies publish updated lists of programs, income limits, and approved lenders. Ask specifically about the state housing finance agency in your state and any city or county programs in your target area. Eligibility usually depends on your income, household size, and the purchase price.

Wherever you live, you can use every educational resource on this site. With your permission, a licensed loan officer may follow up if our network can serve your state. An introduction to another lender requires a separate request and is not guaranteed.

Most assistance programs require homebuyer education, have income caps, and limit which property types qualify. Forgivable second mortgages often require you to stay in the home for a set number of years. Pricing on the first mortgage can also be slightly different when assistance is layered in. Run the full math, not just the upfront benefit.