Grants
Some programs provide funds that do not require repayment when all program conditions are satisfied.
Down Payment Assistance
Your down payment may not have to come entirely from savings.
Down payment assistance programs can help eligible homebuyers cover part of the upfront cost of purchasing a home. Programs vary by location, income, loan type and other requirements, so the first step is finding out what may be available for your situation.
Programs VaryEligibility depends on the specific program
More Than One Form of HelpGrants and repayable assistance may be available
Missouri & KansasAsk us about options for your purchase
Understanding Assistance
Down payment assistance is not one single loan program.
State and local governments, housing agencies and nonprofit organizations may offer homebuyer assistance. Some programs focus on first-time buyers or low- to moderate-income households, while others may serve specific occupations, communities or purchase areas.
Second Mortgages
Some assistance is structured as a second loan that may require monthly payments or repayment under specified terms.
Deferred Assistance
Certain programs defer repayment until a later event, such as selling, refinancing or paying off the first mortgage.
Forgivable Assistance
Some programs may forgive assistance over time if occupancy and other program requirements are met.
Finding The Right Fit
The amount you have saved is only one part of the conversation.
Depending on your circumstances, assistance may be paired with an eligible first mortgage, including certain conventional or government-backed financing. Each program establishes its own rules for income, property, occupancy, credit, education and repayment.
01
Tell us where you want to buy.
Many assistance programs are tied to a state, county, city or other geographic area.
02
Review your financing picture.
Your income, credit, household circumstances and intended loan program can affect eligibility.
03
Compare the complete mortgage.
Assistance can affect loan terms and costs, so it is important to evaluate the full financing package—not just the amount of assistance.
Good To Know
“Down payment assistance” does not always mean free money.
Programs can have very different structures and requirements. Before choosing one, understand how the assistance works and whether repayment, occupancy periods, homebuyer education or other conditions apply.
Eligibility can change.
Program funding, income limits, purchase-price limits and other requirements can change. Availability should be confirmed for your specific transaction.
Assistance may have conditions.
Depending on the program, repayment may be triggered by selling the home, refinancing, moving out or another specified event.
Look at total costs.
A lower upfront cash requirement is valuable, but compare the interest rate, mortgage insurance, fees, second-lien terms and long-term cost of the complete financing package.
Down Payment Assistance FAQ
Common questions from homebuyers.
Do I have to be a first-time homebuyer?
Not always. Many programs target first-time buyers, but some are available to people who have owned a home before. The definition of “first-time buyer” can also vary by program.
Is down payment assistance a grant?
Sometimes, but not always. Assistance may be a grant, repayable second mortgage, deferred loan, forgivable loan or another structure.
Can assistance help with closing costs too?
Some programs may permit assistance to be used toward eligible closing costs as well as the down payment. The specific program determines permitted uses.
Can down payment assistance be used with FHA or conventional financing?
Many state and local programs can work with FHA or conventional first mortgages, but compatibility depends on the assistance program and mortgage guidelines.
Are there income limits?
Many programs have household-income limits, while others use different eligibility criteria. Limits can vary by household size and location.
How do I find out what I qualify for?
Contact Juncture Mortgage with information about where you plan to buy and your financing goals. We can discuss your mortgage options and whether assistance programs may be worth exploring.
Don't let the down payment stop the conversation.
If saving for the upfront cost of a home is your biggest concern, contact Juncture Mortgage. We'll discuss your goals and help you understand financing and assistance options that may be available.