Don't Let a Down Payment Stop You
Many first-time homebuyers believe they need 20% down to buy a home. In reality, there are numerous programs available that can significantly reduce — or even eliminate — the amount you need upfront. Ohio and the Greater Cleveland area have several active programs specifically designed to help buyers get into a home.
Ohio Down Payment Assistance Programs
OHFA offers the Your Choice! Down Payment Assistance program providing 2.5% or 5% of the home's purchase price as down payment assistance. Can be combined with conventional, FHA, VA, or USDA loans.
Learn More →Cuyahoga County periodically offers programs for income-qualifying buyers purchasing in targeted areas. Assistance is often forgivable after a period of occupancy.
Learn More →The City of Cleveland offers assistance for homebuyers purchasing in the city limits through partnerships with local lending institutions.
Learn More →Many suburbs just outside Cleveland qualify for USDA zero-down loans. Ask your lender to check USDA eligibility for your target area.
Learn More →Eligible veterans and active-duty military can purchase with zero down payment and no PMI through VA loan programs.
Learn More →