Down payment assistance programs & options

by THE CUOMO TEAM Kimberly Cuomo 03/18/2024

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

THE CUOMO TEAM Kimberly Cuomo

The Cuomo Team - 25 years experience serving South Florida's Real Estate needs!

Specializing in Residential and Commercial Real Estate Services - 

 Kim Cuomo brings a 25 year wealth of experience and passion to the world of real estate, having dedicated over two decades to serving clients across the vibrant landscapes of South Florida. With a background as a paralegal, Kim's transition into real estate was not just a career change, but a discovery of her true calling. Her deep-rooted love for the industry is evident in the personalized, hands-on approach she adopts with each client, ensuring they feel valued and supported through every step of their journey.

Whether navigating the complexities of a first-time home purchase or orchestrating the sale of a luxurious $30 million estate, Kim's expertise spans the full spectrum of residential and commercial real estate. Her reach extends across Palm Beach County, Martin County, St. Lucie County, Broward County, and Miami-Dade County, offering a comprehensive understanding of the unique markets within each area.

Kim Cuomo's dedication to excellence and her ability to forge meaningful connections with clients make her not just an agent, but a trusted advisor and friend in one of the most significant transactions of their lives. Her commitment to providing exceptional service is unwavering, making her a standout professional in the South Florida real estate scene. 

The Cuomo Team has several agents, so that someone is always available to assist you with any of your real estate needs any time 7 days a week! Kim's husband, John, a retired firefighter from the Town of Palm Beach, works in the Commercial Division. Kim's son Matthew Cuomo works on the team, along with her daughter in law, Tasianna Cuomo. and Christine Cuomo Georgeou, her sister in law. 

You can contact Kim directly anytime at 561-339-3002, and she will be happy to assist you with any of your real estate needs! She looks forward to hearing from you!