Do you qualify for down payment assistance?

Key insights:

• Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner, you may be eligible for down payment assistance on your upcoming home purchase.
• Both Minnesota and Wisconsin have down payment assistance programs designed to help homebuyers get the help they need.
• Each program has different qualification guidelines, so it’s important to do your research before you apply for down payment assistance.
• Not all lenders accept these programs. Check with your mortgage consultant to see if these down payment assistance programs are currently available.

Many would-be buyers are stopped short by one variable in the buying process: the down payment. But thanks to state-run programs in Minnesota and Wisconsin, homeownership may now be within reach for buyers who can afford a monthly mortgage payment but cannot save enough for a down payment.

Minnesota down payment assistance programs

The Minnesota Housing Finance Agency’s Start Up program offers first-time buyer loans for up to $18,000, which can be used for down payment or closing costs.

Borrowers in the Start Up program must:

• Not have owned a house in the last three years.
• Meet the income limits.
• Complete homebuyer education classes.
• Meet minimum credit score requirements.
• Meet owner-occupancy requirements.
• Meet purchase price limits.

Read the full details of the Start Up program for first-time buyers in Minnesota.

Not a first-time buyer?

If you’ve owned a home in the last three years, you’re a first-time homebuyer who exceeds the income and purchase limits for Start Up, or you currently own a home, you may still qualify for down payment assistance or closing cost assistance. Check out the Step Up program, which offers loans for repeat buyers or those seeking to refinance in Minnesota.

Wisconsin down payment assistance programs

In Wisconsin, both first-time buyers and repeat buyers can apply for an Easy Close Down Payment Assistance (DPA) loan from the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA). These loans offer funds that can be used for down payment assistance, closing costs and up-front mortgage insurance premium payments. The minimum loan amount for Easy Close DPA loans is $1,000; the maximum is 6% of the home purchase price.

There are a few caveats to WHEDA’s down payment assistance program: among other things, Homebuyers who receive down payment assistance or closing cost assistance from WHEDA must take out a WHEDA Advantage home loan for their mortgage, and meet income and credit standards. Learn more about WHEDA programs here.

Where should I begin with questions on home mortgages or down payment options?

The most important thing to remember as you set out to get a mortgage loan is this: Your financial situation is unique, and you need customized help and insight in order to determine your best steps and ideal loan program.

To begin working with a home mortgage consultant, get in touch with Edina Realty today. We can help you move forward down the right path toward responsible homeownership.

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