If you do not qualify for the programs above, you can often reach a "zero-down" threshold by combining lower-down-payment loans with other forms of assistance:
: Available to veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses. They feature no monthly mortgage insurance and flexible credit requirements. options for buying a house with no down payment
While 20% is often cited as the gold standard for a down payment, it is far from a requirement. For qualified buyers, 2026 mortgage programs like VA Loans and USDA Loans allow for 0% down. If you do not qualify for the programs
: Standard FHA loans require 3.5% down, but many buyers "stack" these with State and Local Grants or forgivable second mortgages to cover the entire upfront cost. Specialized Lender Programs : For qualified buyers, 2026 mortgage programs like VA
: Allows for a 1% down payment, with the lender providing a 2% non-repayable grant to reach the required equity.
: Combines a 3.5% FHA loan with a forgivable second mortgage, effectively removing the out-of-pocket down payment requirement.
These government-backed programs are the only major loan types that inherently require no down payment: