If you want to buy a home, a government-backed home loan or a mortgage assistance program could help. Learn about the types of loans and how to qualify and apply.
The federal government does not offer grants or "free money" to individuals to buy a home. Websites and ads claiming to offer "free money from the government" are often scams.
The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) manages the FHA loan program. It helps homebuyers by insuring their loans so lenders can offer lower down payments and closing costs.
FHA loans offer assistance to first-time homebuyers, seniors who partially or fully own their home, and those buying a manufactured or mobile home.
To qualify for an FHA loan:
If you want to apply for an FHA loan, visit the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) website to:
Find and contact your state housing finance agency (HFA) to learn about local homebuyer assistance programs.
The Indian Housing (Home) Loan Guarantee Program (“Section 184”) is a home mortgage program designed for American Indian and Alaska Native families, Alaska villages, tribes, and Tribally Designated Entities.
You can use this mortgage loan to:
The Native American Direct Loan (NADL) program is for American Indian and Alaska Native veterans and veterans married to an American Indian or Alaska Native. It can help you purchase or build a home or improve your existing home.
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) helps veterans, surviving spouses, and service members get home loans. These loans can help you purchase a home, refinance your mortgage, or finance home repairs.
If you live in a rural area, you may qualify for home loans through the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) single-family housing programs. Each program has its own eligibility and application process.
HUD’s Good Neighbor Next Door Sales Program offers large discounts on the listing prices of homes in revitalization areas.
To qualify, you must be a law enforcement officer, teacher, firefighter, or emergency medical technician. You also need to commit to living in a property for 36 months as your principal residence.
Energy-efficient mortgages (EEMs) can help you buy a home designed to reduce energy use and have a lower environmental impact.
EEMs can be used to purchase or refinance an existing or new Energy Star-certified home. EEMs can also be used to finance energy-efficient home improvements.