Millennium Realty
Donna Coakley-Mcgowan, Millennium RealtyPhone: (774) 287-2060
Email: [email protected]

Options for down payment assistance buyers should know

by Donna Coakley-Mcgowan 12/28/2022

Affording a down payment on a home can be a major hurdle in the homebuying process, but luckily, there are down payment assistance options to help. With a down payment assistance program, first time homebuyers can get better mortgage terms and afford the house of their dreams.

Here is the most important info about these assistance programs for buyers to know:

How do down payment assistance programs work?

Down payment assistance programs are provided by a variety of institutions, including local government agencies and nonprofits. If you're eligible - decided based on household income, credit history and other factors depending on state - you can either receive a grant or special type of loan to pay for your down payment.

What are the different types of down payment assistance?

There are several types of assistance programs to help new buyers with a down payment:

  • Grants
  • Forgivable loans
  • Deferred-payment loans
  • Low-interest loans
  • Matched saving accounts

Grant programs offer monetary assistance without expectation of repayment. Other programs like forgivable loans or low-interest loans can serve as affordable second mortgages to cover the cost.

Who is eligible for assistance?

Eligibility requirements for down payment assistance programs depend on the individual program. Generally, you need a good credit score and a stable debt to income ratio. Some other requirements include:

  • The home must be in a specific location or county.
  • You must live in the home for a minimum amount of time (usually 3 to 10 years).
  • You have to be a first-time homebuyer.
  • You have to take a homebuyer education class.

How to apply for down payment assistance

The availability of down payment assistance is different in every area of the country. Check online or with a loan officer for eligibility requirements, applications and details.

Should you consider applying for a down payment grant or other assistance program? Remember these key points when factoring the option into your financial decisions. 

About the Author
Author

Donna Coakley-Mcgowan

Licensed since 1983 Donna is a well known and well respected veteran of the local real estate market. Donna has made her mark as both a manager of a brokerage firm and as an agent. Ms. Coakley McGowan has participated in extensive training in residential real estate and specializes in both Buyer and Seller Agency.   

"I am extremely pleased to welcome an Associate of Donna’s caliber and expertise” said Judy Leonelli, Owner. "I have known Donna for many years and have admired her professionalism and talent for the pragmatic resolution to the difficulties that can arise during a transaction. When Donna is involved you know there will be a successful outcome.”  

Ms. Coakley McGowan has lived in Upton since 1995 and knows the area and all of its attributes. She currently serves the Town of Upton and the Regional School District as Chairperson of the School Committee.  She and her husband Mark and their two children reside in Upton.