: You must live in the house as your main home for a specific number of years to avoid having to pay the money back. Where to Find Programs Near You Down Payment Resource: Down Payment Assistance

Most assistance programs are managed by state housing finance agencies (HFAs), local governments, or private lenders.

: Many states offer true grants for first-time buyers that range from a few thousand dollars to 5% of the purchase price . These do not require repayment if you follow the program's residency rules.