: Designed for low-to-moderate-income buyers in designated rural and some suburban areas. They offer 100% financing with no down payment requirement, provided the property is in an eligible USDA area .

: Newer pilot programs, such as those in Michigan or California , offer up to $25,000–$150,000 for buyers whose parents have not owned a home recently.

: This program provides a 3.5% down payment assistance second mortgage that can be forgiven after 36 on-time monthly payments. Key Considerations FHA + DPA Grant Down Payment 0% (if grant covers it) Credit Req. Varies (often 580+) Typically 640+ Varies by DPA program Location Nationwide Eligible Rural/Suburban Nationwide PMI Low annual fee Monthly PMI required

If you don't qualify for VA or USDA loans, you can use "stackable" assistance to reach a zero-down effect with other loan types:

: Many states offer grants (like CHFA ) or forgivable loans that cover the 3%–3.5% requirement for FHA or Conventional loans.

: The Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America offers a program with no down payment , no closing costs, and no PMI for qualifying members. Leveraging Assistance to Reach $0 Down

: Available to eligible military members, veterans, and certain surviving spouses. These offer $0 down and do not require monthly private mortgage insurance (PMI), though they usually involve an upfront funding fee.