: Combines a 3.5% FHA loan with a forgivable second mortgage, effectively removing the out-of-pocket down payment requirement.
: As of 2026, there are over 2,600 DPA programs nationwide, offering an average benefit of $18,000. 3. Managing Upfront Costs United States Department of Veterans Affairs options for buying a house with no down payment
: Allows for a 1% down payment, with the lender providing a 2% non-repayable grant to reach the required equity. : Combines a 3
If you do not qualify for the programs above, you can often reach a "zero-down" threshold by combining lower-down-payment loans with other forms of assistance: Managing Upfront Costs United States Department of Veterans
While 20% is often cited as the gold standard for a down payment, it is far from a requirement. For qualified buyers, 2026 mortgage programs like VA Loans and USDA Loans allow for 0% down.
: Designed for low-to-moderate income buyers in designated rural and suburban areas—which account for roughly 97% of the U.S. land mass. Household income generally cannot exceed 115% of the area's median income. 2. Assistance & "Stacking" Strategies