Affording a down payment on a home can be a major hurdle in the homebuying process, but luckily, there are down payment assistance options to help. With a down payment assistance program, first time homebuyers can get better mortgage terms and afford the house of their dreams.
Here is the most important info about these assistance programs for buyers to know:
How do down payment assistance programs work?
Down payment assistance programs are provided by a variety of institutions, including local government agencies and nonprofits. If you're eligible - decided based on household income, credit history and other factors depending on state - you can either receive a grant or special type of loan to pay for your down payment.
What are the different types of down payment assistance?
There are several types of assistance programs to help new buyers with a down payment:
- Grants
- Forgivable loans
- Deferred-payment loans
- Low-interest loans
- Matched saving accounts
Grant programs offer monetary assistance without expectation of repayment. Other programs like forgivable loans or low-interest loans can serve as affordable second mortgages to cover the cost.
Who is eligible for assistance?
Eligibility requirements for down payment assistance programs depend on the individual program. Generally, you need a good credit score and a stable debt to income ratio. Some other requirements include:
- The home must be in a specific location or county.
- You must live in the home for a minimum amount of time (usually 3 to 10 years).
- You have to be a first-time homebuyer.
- You have to take a homebuyer education class.
How to apply for down payment assistance
The availability of down payment assistance is different in every area of the country. Check online or with a loan officer for eligibility requirements, applications and details.
Should you consider applying for a down payment grant or other assistance program? Remember these key points when factoring the option into your financial decisions.
About the Author
Ryan Mandigo
Ryan Mandigo is an award-winning professional broker associate with Omni Real Estate. Originally a native of New Hampshire, his love of real estate began 30+ years ago while swinging a hammer on a framing crew. He has always had a strong passion for helping people, whether it be assisting a couple in purchasing their first home, finding a home that fits a growing family's needs, or downsizing for those with an empty nest. He strives to build strong personal and professional relationships with being a true believer in the power of positive thinking and always willing to lend a helping hand.
He is also a co-founder and board member of the Swing Fore the Kids organization. A local charity that is 100% nonprofit and their sole purpose is to help needy children and young adults within Horry County communities. He finds great satisfaction and pleasure in seeing how working hard for a great cause and raising funds can help others in need. He is also on the Board of Directors for the Waccamaw Youth Center in Conway, where their mission is to provide at-risk youth "A Place To Call Home"
When he is not working, he enjoys music, working around the home, spending time with family and friends, turning wrenches on vintage vehicles, getting some wind therapy on the Harley or chilling with their dogs.
Some quotes he lives by - "Do what you like and like what you do" - "You have to be odd to be number one" - "Dreams don't work unless you do" And one of his favorites. "Positive and enthusiastic thinking in all you do"
