$0 Money Down Programs

Several government-backed loan programs allow qualified first-time buyers to purchase a home with zero money down. USDA loans (for eligible rural and suburban areas) and VA loans (for eligible veterans and active-duty service members) offer 100% financing—meaning you can own a home without a traditional down payment. These programs are a powerful way to get into homeownership with little to no cash required at closing.

Builder Incentives

Buying new construction? Many builders offer attractive first-time buyer incentives, such as paying all or part of your closing costs, offering rate buy-downs, or providing free appliance packages and upgrades. These perks can save you thousands and significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses—sometimes to almost nothing.

Local Grants & Down Payment Assistance

Cities, counties, and states often offer grants and forgivable loans to help first-time buyers with down payments and closing costs. These funds do not have to be repaid if program terms are met. Depending on where you live, this can cover a large portion—or even all—of your upfront costs, helping you transition from renting to owning with minimal financial strain.

Lender Contributions Toward Closing Costs

Many lenders offer special first-time buyer programs that include credits toward your closing costs. These may come as part of a promotional offer, or be tied to using a preferred real estate agent or builder. In some cases, lender contributions can cover thousands of dollars in fees, helping you seal the deal on your new home with very little money out of pocket.