First-Time Home Buyer Programs
A step closer to your first home.
A little help can go a long way. Applying for a mortgage and saving for a down payment can feel intimidating — fortunately, there are first-time home buyer programs designed to make the process less stressful. You just need to know what they are and where to look.
Programs change frequently. We'll connect you with a trusted mortgage professional for the most current, accurate guidance.
What Are First-Time Home Buyer Programs?
Programs designed to help people purchase their first home.
These can include low down payment loans, down payment assistance (DPA) programs, and federal or state first-time homebuyer government programs. The right fit depends on your situation — your credit, income, savings, and the home you're hoping to buy.
Government-backed
Many programs are government-backed, while others are funded through housing authorities or financial institutions.
National to local
Some programs are offered nationally, others are statewide, and some are hyper-local to a particular area.
Each has qualifications
Factors include credit score, income, down payment amount, the price of your desired home, and more.
Gifts or repayment
Some require eventual repayment, and some are as good as gifts — each program is structured differently.
Programs to Explore
Six first-time home buyer programs to know.
Each program has its own qualifications — credit score, income, down payment, home price, and more. Here's an overview to help you understand the landscape before you talk to a lender.
Federal Housing Administration
FHA Loans
FHA-backed mortgages allow lenders to offer favorable deals. A good fit for many first-time buyers because of low down payments and flexible credit.
Advantages
- Down payments as low as 3.5%
- Less restrictive credit qualifications
- Competitive interest rates
- Assumable loans
Qualifications
- Credit score of 580+ for 3.5% down (500–579 typically requires 10% down)
- Debt-to-income ratio under 43%
- Proof of employment and reliable income
- Mortgage insurance required
- Must be your primary residence
U.S. Department of Agriculture
USDA Rural Housing Loans
If you're willing to buy in a rural area — and the definition of rural is surprisingly flexible — a USDA loan may help. Designed for lower- and middle-income families.
Advantages
- No required down payment
- Below-market interest rates
- Flexible credit guidelines
Qualifications
- Property must be in a qualified rural area
- Must be your primary residence
- Stable credit history — score of 640+ preferred
- Adjusted household income at or below 115% of area median
- Reliable source of income
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
VA Loans
Available to eligible active-duty service members, veterans, and surviving spouses. A lifetime benefit — not limited to first-time buyers.
Advantages
- No required down payment
- No private mortgage insurance (PMI)
- Competitive interest rates
- Lifetime benefit
Qualifications
- Valid Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
- Meet active-duty or veteran service requirements
- Sufficient income and stable credit
- Must be your primary residence
- Property must meet VA minimum standards
HUD Program
Good Neighbor Next Door
Helps eligible public servants — law enforcement officers, pre-K through 12th grade teachers, and firefighters/EMTs — purchase certain HUD homes with a 50% discount.
Advantages
- 50% discount on the list price of eligible HUD homes
- No interest or payments on the second mortgage as long as you fulfill the three-year occupancy requirement
Qualifications
- Must be a law enforcement officer, teacher, or firefighter/EMT
- Must agree to live in the home for at least three years
- Property must be in a qualifying revitalization area
- Strict requirements and limited weekly inventory
DPA Programs
Down Payment Assistance Grants
Financial help that covers part — or sometimes all — of the cash you need upfront for a down payment. Usually reserved for first-time homebuyers.
Advantages
- Free money that doesn't need to be repaid (in many cases)
- Can be combined with FHA or conventional loans
- Reduces the cash needed to close
Qualifications
- Income limitations may apply
- Cap on home purchase price
- Property may need to meet specific criteria
- Homebuyer education may be required
Statewide Assistance
State Housing Agency Programs
State housing finance agencies help first-time buyers by offering down payment assistance, low-interest loans, tax credits, and educational resources designed to make homeownership more affordable.
Advantages
- Down payment assistance
- Below-market interest rates
- Mortgage credit certificates (MCC) for tax savings
- Homebuyer education resources
Qualifications
- First-time buyer status (varies by state)
- Income and purchase price limits
- Completion of homebuyer education (in some cases)
- Property must be your primary residence
Your Next Steps
Lots of options. Lots of opportunity.
The best resource for gathering accurate, up-to-date information on homebuyer programs is always to start by talking to a mortgage professional. We'll help you get there.
Talk to our team
We'll learn about your goals, timeline, and where you're hoping to buy across Greater Pittsburgh.
Connect with a mortgage professional
Programs change frequently. We'll introduce you to a trusted lender who can provide current, accurate guidance on which programs fit your situation.
Get pre-approved and start your search
With a pre-approval in hand, you'll know your budget and be ready to move when the right home comes along.
First-time homebuyer programs are all different and subject to change with regularity. While finding an experienced real estate agent is key to your purchase process, your best bet for the most accurate program information is a licensed mortgage professional. This page is for general education only and is not a commitment to lend.