Several non-profit agencies and local governments offer their own down-payment assistance programs, each with their own eligibility requirements. See the NDHFA website for contact information.

This program works with approved local developers to provide favorable mortgage terms for first-time homebuyers. Incentive is offered in the form of a 1 percent interest-rate reduction for the first 5 years of the mortgage term. Borrowers must complete a homeowner education course and meet both income and purchase price limits.

Another downpayment option for first-time homebuyers is available in the form of a zero-interest deferred second mortgage. Assistance is available for the greater of 3 percent of the home's purchase price or $3,000. Borrowers must pay the first $500 out of their own pockets. FirstHome and HomeKey borrowers may take advantage of this program, but not those working with the Start Program. Income and purchase price limits apply.

This program offers first-time homebuyers the chance to secure a mortgage with interest rates below current market rates. Income and purchase price limits apply.

We are approved by the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to provide counseling, education and advice in housing issues to new and existing homeowners.

Disabled, veteran, and single-parent homebuyers may qualify for attractive mortgage terms through HomeAccess without having to be a first-time homebuyer. Certain defining conditions apply to determine eligibility. Income and purchase price requirements must be met.

Even lower interest rates than those offered from FirstHome are available for a first mortgage through the HomeKey Program. HomeKey interest rates and payments increase slightly over the following two years, but stay the same after that. Subject to credit approval and income limits, first-time homebuyers with lower income can get their foot in the door of homeownership and give themselves a chance to improve their economic situation.

This program works with the North Dakota Community Action Agency to "recycle" existing properties in need of repairs. Homes are bought by the state, fixed up, and then resold to low-income homebuyers, who must meet credit requirements and complete a homebuyer education course to participate in the program.

Those who are new to North Dakota or returning after at least a one-year absence may be eligible for favorable mortgage terms under this program. A minimum of $500 must come from the borrower's personal funds. Assistance, which may include help with the down payment or closing costs, is not available to those who qualify for FirstHome or HomeAccess.

With a $500 investment of their own, new homebuyers may qualify for assistance with the up-front costs of purchasing a home from the Start Program. Help is given at closing in the form of a credit equal to 3 percent of the home's purchase price. This first mortgage carries a slightly higher interest rate than that offered by the FirstHome program, but it can make a difference to borrowers who had trouble saving for the down payment.

Homebuyers who wish to purchase properties in certain areas of North Dakota may be eligible for special mortgage loan terms. Eligible borrowers must meet all requirements of the FirstHome Program except the first-time homebuyer rule. Funding is limited and will be given on a first-come, first-served basis.

Homeowners whose residence has been damaged by a formally declared disaster may qualify for a special loan to rebuild or rehabilitate their home. Properties must have experienced enough damage to warrant the relocation or significant repairs. Income and purchase price limits apply.