The more people who own homes in a community, the better!
At least that's what the vast majority of state and local governments believe, and for good reason: homeownership improves communities by increasing economic stability, decreasing crime, and increasing civic engagement.
The good news is that many of these state and local governments offer down payment assistance programs (DPAs) to help you qualify for a mortgage by helping you round up the funds you need.
DPA programs exist almost everywhere, but these initiatives are usually reserved for:
Many programs out there encourage homeownership, and the details and qualification standards are all over the map. But generally, DPA programs provide funds in the following ways:
Most DPAs are paired with a competitive conventional or FHA mortgage, and almost all DPA programs require that you work with a qualified lender (such as Castle & Cooke Mortgage). Many of the programs also have rules that apply after you close on the loan, such as deed restrictions.
In addition to taking advantage of programs that help with down payments, you may be eligible for programs that help with closing costs.
It’s important to know that if you do accept closing cost assistance, some of those costs could be folded into your mortgage or could increase your rate.
Homes for Heroes is another type of program that helps people get into homes. But in this case, it’s not a government effort. Instead, it is an affiliation of Loan Officers and real estate agents who offer discounts that may be applied toward closing costs.
Local heroes who qualify for the program may include firefighters, law enforcers, veterans, healthcare workers, and teachers. If you fit into one of these categories or have another service-related job, be sure to let your Loan Officer know!
How much you may get varies depending on the transaction, but Homes for Heroes discounts may be available whether you’re buying or refinancing your house, even if you aren’t a first time homeowner.
Additional programs may exist depending on factors such as where you buy a home, how much money you make, and average home prices where you live. In fact, more than 2,000 such programs exist nationwide.