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Ohio Down Payment Assistance Programs

Ohio has 40 down payment assistance programs, offering up to $30,000, including 5 grants that never need repayment. Most buyers combine a statewide program with a local city or county program to cover down payment and closing costs.

40
Total Programs
$30,000
Max Assistance
620
Min Credit Score
5
Grant Programs
Check My Eligibility →

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Last updated: April 2026 | By Down Payment Scout team

Ohio offers 40 down payment assistance programs to help homebuyers cover their down payment and closing costs. This includes 5 grant programs that never require repayment. Programs range from statewide options administered by the state housing finance agency to local city and county programs targeting specific communities.

Maximum assistance available reaches $30,000 through the most generous program. Credit score requirements start as low as 620 for some programs. Most programs require the home to be your primary residence, and many require homebuyer education.

Top Down Payment Assistance Programs in Ohio

Highlighted programs that combine high assistance amounts with statewide or major-metro availability. See the full list below.

Cleveland Heights Down Payment Assistance Program

verify

City of Cleveland Heights / Home Repair Resource Center (HRRC)

UP TO 17% for 80% AMI borrowers; UP TO 13% for 120% AMI borrowers (max $30,000 in both cases) (max UP TO $30,000)

second mortgage📍 City of Cleveland Heights

FHLB Cincinnati Welcome Home Program

closed

Federal Home Loan Bank of Cincinnati (FHLB Cincinnati)

UP TO $20,000 (UP TO $25,000 for veterans, active military, and surviving spouses)

grant📍 Kentucky, Ohio, and Tennessee (multi-state)

Cuyahoga County Down Payment Assistance Program

verify

Believe Mortgage (CHN Housing Partners)

10% of purchase price (max UP TO 10% of purchase price, maximum $20,900)

forgivable loan📍 Cuyahoga County (51 eligible communities; excludes Cleveland...

Believe Mortgage Down Payment Assistance (Cuyahoga and Lorain Counties)

verify

Believe Mortgage (CHN Housing Capital / CHN Housing Partners)

10% of purchase price (max UP TO 10% of purchase price, maximum $20,900)

deferred loan📍 Cuyahoga County and Lorain County

City of Toledo Home At Last Program

verify

City of Toledo

UP TO $12,500 (or UP TO $20,000 in targeted revitalization neighborhoods)

forgivable loan📍 City of Toledo

Grant Programs (5)

Grants are the gold standard of down payment assistance. You receive the money and never have to pay it back.

FHLB Cincinnati Welcome Home Program

Federal Home Loan Bank of Cincinnati (FHLB Cincinnati)

closed
UP TO $20,000 (UP TO $25,000 for veterans, active military, and surviving spouses)down payment assistance
stategrant📍 Kentucky, Ohio, and Tennessee (multi-state)
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
No
Income Limit
Total occupant income at or below 80% of...
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
single-family, condo, townhome, manufactured
Max Price
Not specified

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Not specified
Assistance Type
grant
Profession
all
Homebuyer Ed.
Not specified

Income Limits

Total occupant income at or below 80% of Mortgage Revenue Bond (MRB) limit for county/state

Check AMI limits for your county →

Repayment Terms

Grant - no repayment. 5-year retention period; must notify FHLB of any sale, refinance, foreclosure, or ownership change during retention.

Additional Requirements

Homebuyer must contribute minimum $500 toward purchase. No co-signors or non-occupant co-borrowers. Max first mortgage interest rate: 9.875%. Must apply through FHLB Cincinnati member financial institution. 2026 program opens April 6, 2026 at 8:00 AM ET; first-come first-served

Notes

Not required to be first-time buyer. First-time buyers must complete homeownership counseling.. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence; 5-year retention period with restrictive covenant on deed

Visit Program Website ↗

Down Payment Assistance

Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde - Housing

open
20 (max $20,000)down payment assistance
agencygrant📍 Baker, Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Cu...
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
Yes
Income Limit
Not specified
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
Max Price
Not specified

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
Assistance Type
grant
Profession
All
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

City of Middletown HOME Down Payment Assistance Program

Neighborhood Housing Services of Hamilton (NHS) on behalf of City of Middletown

verify
6% of purchase price (max UP TO $5,000 (or 6% of purchase price, whichever is lower); additional incentives for homes in target neighborhoods)down payment assistance
citygrant📍 City of Middletown
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
No
Income Limit
Low-moderate income
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
single-family, condo
Max Price
$277,000 (existing homes); $330,000 (new construction); per NHS administering agency December 2025

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Not specified
Assistance Type
grant
Profession
all
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Income Limits

Low to moderate income (program year 2025 active)

Check AMI limits for your county →

Repayment Terms

Non-repayable (grant/forgiven loan). No repayment required.

Additional Requirements

Additional incentives for target neighborhood purchases; HUD HOME-funded; Program Year 2025 (5/1/25-4/30/26) active

Notes

Not required - open to all homebuyers who will occupy as principal residence (previously first-time only, now expanded)

Visit Program Website ↗

Communities First Ohio Down Payment Assistance

Port of Greater Cincinnati Development Authority

verify
3% to 5% of the purchase pricedown payment assistance
stategrant📍 Statewide
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
No
Income Limit
115% AMI
Min Credit Score
620+
Property Types
single-family, 2-unit, PUD, townhome
Max Price
Not specified

Quick Facts

Loan Types
FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional
Assistance Type
grant
Profession
all
Homebuyer Ed.
Not specified

Income Limits

Generally 115% AMI

Check AMI limits for your county →

Repayment Terms

True Grant (Gift). No repayment required, no second mortgage lien.

Additional Requirements

Usually comes with slightly higher interest rate on first mortgage

Notes

Check program requirements. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence

Visit Program Website ↗

Communities First - Down Payment Assistance Program

The Port

open
5down payment assistance
agencygrant📍 Adams, Allen, Ashland, Ashtabula, Athens, Auglaize, Belmont,...
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
No
Income Limit
Not specified
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
Single-Family, 2 units, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
Max Price
Not specified

Quick Facts

Loan Types
FHA, VA, USDA-RD, Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, USDA-RD +4, USDA-RD +1
Assistance Type
grant
Profession
All
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Forgivable Loans (10)

Forgivable loans are forgiven after a set period of living in the home. If you stay, you keep the money.

Cuyahoga County Down Payment Assistance Program

Believe Mortgage (CHN Housing Partners)

verify
10% of purchase price (max UP TO 10% of purchase price, maximum $20,900)down payment assistance
countyforgivable loan📍 Cuyahoga County (51 eligible communities; excludes Cleveland...
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
Yes
Income Limit
Low-moderate income
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
single-family
Max Price
$20,900

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Not specified
Assistance Type
forgivable loan
Profession
all
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Income Limits

Low to moderate income; cannot exceed program income limits

Check AMI limits for your county →

Repayment Terms

Deferred loan - NEVER forgiven. Due upon sale, refinance, transfer, or mortgage payoff.

Additional Requirements

Must be current on all taxes. Excludes Cleveland, Cleveland Heights, East Cleveland, Euclid, Lakewood

Notes

Must not have owned a home in the past 3 years. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence

Visit Program Website ↗

City of Toledo Home At Last Program

City of Toledo

verify
UP TO $12,500 (or UP TO $20,000 in targeted revitalization neighborhoods)down payment assistance
cityforgivable loan📍 City of Toledo
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
Yes
Income Limit
80% AMI
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
single-family, condo
Max Price
Not specified

Quick Facts

Loan Types
HUD
Assistance Type
forgivable loan
Profession
all
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Income Limits

At or below 80% AMI

Check AMI limits for your county →

Interest Rate

0%

Repayment Terms

0% interest forgivable loan

Notes

First-time homebuyers. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence

Visit Program Website ↗

Kettering First-Time Homebuyer Assistance Program

Day Air Credit Union in partnership with City of Kettering

open
10% of purchase price plus closing costs (max UP TO 10% of purchase price plus closing costs, maximum $20,000)down payment assistance
cityforgivable loan📍 City of Kettering
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
Yes
Income Limit
Low-moderate income
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
Not specified
Max Price
$20,000

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Not specified
Assistance Type
forgivable loan
Profession
all
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Income Limits

Low to moderate income

Check AMI limits for your county →

Repayment Terms

Forgivable over 5 years (20% per year). Must remain in home as primary residence.

Additional Requirements

20% of assistance forgiven each year over 5 years; program originally funded with $1M+ in ARPA funds - verify current availability with Day Air Credit Union

Notes

First-time homebuyers required

Visit Program Website ↗

Mayor's Neighborhood Transformation Initiative Down Payment Assistance (Cleveland Glenville)

City of Cleveland / Believe Mortgage (CHN Housing Capital)

open
UP TO $20,000down payment assistance
cityforgivable loan📍 Glenville-Circle North Neighborhood, City of Cleveland
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
No
Income Limit
120% AMI
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
Not specified
Max Price
Not specified

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Not specified
Assistance Type
forgivable loan
Profession
all
Homebuyer Ed.
Not specified

Income Limits

No income restrictions; if at or below 120% AMI must contribute 3% down; if above 120% AMI must contribute 5% down

Check AMI limits for your county →

Repayment Terms

Forgiven after 5 years of owner-occupancy. Zero percent deferred second mortgage.

Additional Requirements

Available through Believe Mortgage (CHN Housing Capital); part of City's $65M Neighborhood Transformation Initiative

Notes

Not required to be first-time buyer

Visit Program Website ↗

Columbus American Dream Downpayment Initiative (ADDI)

City of Columbus Housing Division

verify
6% of purchase price (whichever is lower (max UP TO $14,999 or 6% of purchase price (whichever is lower); UP TO $5,000 additional for households at/below 80% AMI)down payment assistance
cityforgivable loan📍 City of Columbus / Columbus City School District
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
Yes
Income Limit
120% AMI
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
single-family, condo
Max Price
$5,000

Quick Facts

Loan Types
FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional
Assistance Type
forgivable loan
Profession
all
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Income Limits

At or below 120% AMI (HOME-funded projects: at or below 80% AMI)

Check AMI limits for your county →

Repayment Terms

Forgivable after 5 years of occupancy. If sold before 5 years, funds repaid from net proceeds.

Additional Requirements

Minimum 6 months Ohio residency; must be US permanent resident. Must complete homebuyer education from HUD-certified agency. Buyer must have $500 of own saved funds and $500 accessible after closing. Eligible loans: Conventional, FHA, USDA, VA, 203K. Can be stacked with other DPA programs (excluding other City-funded). PITI max 35% of monthly income; total debt max 45%. Approval takes 4-6 weeks; first-come first-served

Notes

Individual and spouse must not have owned a home in 36 months prior to purchase. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence for 5 years. Max DTI: 45%

Visit Program Website ↗

City of Cincinnati American Dream Downpayment Initiative (ADDI)

City of Cincinnati Community Development Department

verify
UP TO $14,000down payment assistance
cityforgivable loan📍 City of Cincinnati
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
Yes
Income Limit
80% AMI
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
single-family
Max Price
Not specified

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Conventional, FHA, VA
Assistance Type
forgivable loan
Profession
all
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Income Limits

At or below 80% AMI

Check AMI limits for your county →

Repayment Terms

Forgivable after 5 years of occupancy. All or a portion recaptured if owner moves, sells, or transfers before 5 years.

Additional Requirements

Funds recaptured (pro-rated) if homeowner moves, sells, or transfers ownership during the 5-year residency period

Notes

First-time homebuyers only

Visit Program Website ↗

City of Akron Down Payment Assistance Program

City of Akron Planning and Urban Development

open
UP TO $12,000down payment assistance
cityforgivable loan📍 City of Akron
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
No
Income Limit
80% AMI
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
Not specified
Max Price
Not specified

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Not specified
Assistance Type
forgivable loan
Profession
all
Homebuyer Ed.
Not specified

Income Limits

At or below 80% AMI

Check AMI limits for your county →

Repayment Terms

Forgiven over time based on years of occupancy; specific timeline should be confirmed with City of Akron Planning Department.

Additional Requirements

Program launched in 2025 with $300,000 HUD allocation targeting approximately 25 families; forgiveness timeline was still being determined at launch; verify current availability and application status with City of Akron

Notes

Not required to be prior Akron resident; must owner-occupy the purchased home

Visit Program Website ↗

Butler County NHS Down Payment Assistance Program

Neighborhood Housing Services of Hamilton (NHS), on behalf of Butler County/City of Middletown HOME Consortium

open
6% (max UP TO $7,500)down payment assistance
countyforgivable loan📍 Butler County (excludes City of Hamilton)
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
Yes
Income Limit
80% AMI
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
single-family, condo
Max Price
$277,000 (existing homes); $330,000 (new construction); effective December 1, 2025

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Not specified
Assistance Type
forgivable loan
Profession
all
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Income Limits

At or below 80% AMI

Check AMI limits for your county →

Repayment Terms

Pro-rated forgivable over 5 years. Portion repaid if owner moves, sells, or converts to rental before 5 years.

Additional Requirements

HUD HOME-funded program; pro-rated repayment if property sold, foreclosed, or used for rental before 5 years

Notes

First-time homebuyers; low-income families

Visit Program Website ↗

OHFA Down Payment Assistance (Your Choice!)

Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA)

verify
3% for conventional loans; 3.5% for government loans (FHA, VA, USDA)down payment assistance
stateforgivable loan📍 Statewide
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
Yes
Income Limit
Varies by county; target and non-target ...
Min Credit Score
640+
Property Types
Not specified
Max Price
Not specified

Quick Facts

Loan Types
FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional
Assistance Type
forgivable loan
Profession
all
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Income Limits

Varies by county; target and non-target income limits apply

Check AMI limits for your county →

Repayment Terms

Forgiven after 7 years. If sold or refinanced within 7 years, full repayment of DPA required.

Additional Requirements

Credit score 640+ for conventional/VA/USDA; 650+ for FHA. Must complete free homebuyer education through HUD-approved counseling agency. Must use OHFA-approved lender

Notes

First-time homebuyer programs; exceptions for target areas and veterans. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence

Visit Program Website ↗

Miami Valley Fair Housing Center ICF Down Payment Assistance

Miami Valley Fair Housing Center (MVFHC) in partnership with HomeOwnership Center of Greater Dayton

verify
20% of purchase price (UP TO $20,000 maximum)down payment assistance
cityforgivable loan📍 ZIP codes 45417 (City of Dayton) and 45426 (City of Trotwood...
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
No
Income Limit
Not specified; targeted at communities o...
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
Not specified
Max Price
Not specified

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Not specified
Assistance Type
forgivable loan
Profession
all
Homebuyer Ed.
Not specified

Income Limits

Not specified; targeted at communities of color in highest foreclosure ZIP codes

Check AMI limits for your county →

Interest Rate

0%

Repayment Terms

0% interest deferred mortgage loan. 50% forgiven after five years of primary residency. Remaining 50% due upon sale, transfer, or non-occupancy. Structured to provide 20% down payment, achieving 80% LTV on first mortgage and eliminating PMI requirement.

Additional Requirements

Program goal is to stabilize home values and encourage owner-occupied investment in Dayton and Trotwood ZIP codes with highest foreclosure rates

Notes

Not specified as requirement

Visit Program Website ↗

Deferred Payment Loans (23)

Deferred loans require no monthly payments while you live in the home. You repay when you sell, refinance, or move out.

Believe Mortgage Down Payment Assistance (Cuyahoga and Lorain Counties)

Believe Mortgage (CHN Housing Capital / CHN Housing Partners)

verify
10% of purchase price (max UP TO 10% of purchase price, maximum $20,900)down payment assistance
countydeferred loan📍 Cuyahoga County and Lorain County
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
Yes
Income Limit
80% AMI
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
single-family
Max Price
$20,900

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Not specified
Assistance Type
deferred loan
Profession
all
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Income Limits

At or below 80% AMI

Check AMI limits for your county →

Repayment Terms

Deferred loan; repayable upon sale, transfer of title, or refinance.

Additional Requirements

This is a separate product from the county-administered Cuyahoga County DPA in the baseline (which uses Believe as servicer); Believe Mortgage also offers a Believe100 product (100% financing) for higher FICO borrowers; expanding to Summit County

Notes

Must not have owned a home in the past 3 years

Visit Program Website ↗

Franklin County Downpayment Assistance Program

Homeport

open
5 (max $15,000)down payment assistance
agencydeferred loan📍 Franklin
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
Yes
Income Limit
Not specified
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
Max Price
Not specified

Quick Facts

Loan Types
FHA
Assistance Type
deferred loan
Profession
All
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Interest Rate

None

Repayment Terms

Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance

Visit Program Website ↗

Maude Hill Growing Homeownership Fund

Homeport

open
5 (max $15,000)down payment assistance
agencydeferred loan📍 Franklin
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
Yes
Income Limit
Not specified
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
Single-Family, 2 units, 3 units, 4 units, Condominium, Manufactured
Max Price
Not specified

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
Assistance Type
deferred loan
Profession
All
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Interest Rate

None

Repayment Terms

Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance

Visit Program Website ↗

First Home Lima

City of Lima

open
$14,999down payment assistance
agencydeferred loan📍 Allen
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
Yes
Income Limit
Not specified
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium, 2 units
Max Price
$268,000

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
Assistance Type
deferred loan
Profession
All
Homebuyer Ed.
Not specified

Repayment Terms

Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance

Visit Program Website ↗

The American Dream Down Payment Initiative (ADDI)

City of Cincinnati

open
$14,000down payment assistance
agencydeferred loan📍 Hamilton
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
Yes
Income Limit
Not specified
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
Single-Family, Condominium, Manufactured
Max Price
$345,000

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA
Assistance Type
deferred loan
Profession
All
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Interest Rate

None

Repayment Terms

Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance

Visit Program Website ↗

Down Payment Assistance Loan Program

City of Lakewood

open
$14,000down payment assistance
agencydeferred loan📍 Cuyahoga
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
Yes
Income Limit
Not specified
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium, 2 units
Max Price
$191,000

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
Assistance Type
deferred loan
Profession
All
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Interest Rate

None

Repayment Terms

Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance

Visit Program Website ↗

Summit County First Home, First Loan DPA Program

Summit County

open
3:1 match UP TO $12,000 (buyer puts in $4,000, county matches $12,000)down payment assistance
countydeferred loan📍 Summit County (excludes Akron, Barberton, Cuyahoga Falls)
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
Yes
Income Limit
80% AMI
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
single-family, condo, townhome
Max Price
$163,000

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Not specified
Assistance Type
deferred loan
Profession
all
Homebuyer Ed.
Not specified

Income Limits

At or below 80% AMI

Check AMI limits for your county →

Interest Rate

0%

Repayment Terms

Deferred, no-interest loan. Specific forgiveness terms not detailed publicly.

Additional Requirements

Funded by HOME Investment Partnership Program (HUD). Excludes Akron, Barberton, and Cuyahoga Falls (have their own programs). Buyer must contribute $4,000 to receive full $12,000 match

Notes

First-time homebuyer program for low-moderate income households. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence

Visit Program Website ↗

First Home First Loan Down Payment Assistance

County of Summit Community and Economic Dept

open
$12,000down payment assistance
agencydeferred loan📍 Summit
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
Yes
Income Limit
Not specified
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium
Max Price
$163,000

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +4
Assistance Type
deferred loan
Profession
All
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Interest Rate

None

Repayment Terms

Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance

Visit Program Website ↗

City of Dayton Down Payment Assistance Program

City of Dayton - The HomeOwnership Center

open
10 (max $10,000)down payment assistance
agencydeferred loan📍 Montgomery
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
Yes
Income Limit
Not specified
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium, 2 units
Max Price
Not specified

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA
Assistance Type
deferred loan
Profession
All
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Interest Rate

None

Repayment Terms

Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance

Visit Program Website ↗

Down Payment Assistance Loan Program

Euclid Development Corporation

verify
$10,000down payment assistance
agencydeferred loan📍 Cuyahoga
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
Yes
Income Limit
Not specified
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
Max Price
$281,000

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
Assistance Type
deferred loan
Profession
All
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Interest Rate

None

Repayment Terms

Forgivable - Fully forgiven at closing or forgiven on a schedule

Visit Program Website ↗

Down Payment Assistance

Homebase Cincinnati

open
$10,000down payment assistance
agencydeferred loan📍 Hamilton
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
No
Income Limit
Not specified
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium, 2 units
Max Price
$250,000

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
Assistance Type
deferred loan
Profession
All
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Repayment Terms

Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance

Visit Program Website ↗

Grants-Down Payment/Closing Cost Assistance

Neighborhood Housing Services of Hamilton, Inc.

open
6 (max $10,000)down payment assistance
agencydeferred loan📍 Butler
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
No
Income Limit
Not specified
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
Single-Family, Condominium
Max Price
$326,000

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
Assistance Type
deferred loan
Profession
All
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Repayment Terms

Forgivable - Fully forgiven at closing or forgiven on a schedule

Visit Program Website ↗

City of Massillon Down Payment Assistance Program

City of Massillon

verify
7% of purchase price (percentage based on total qualifying income (max 6-7% of purchase price (percentage based on total qualifying income); plus UP TO $5,000 for minimum code-related repairs post-purchase)down payment assistance
citydeferred loan📍 City of Massillon
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
Yes
Income Limit
Low-moderate income
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
Not specified
Max Price
$5,000

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Not specified
Assistance Type
deferred loan
Profession
all
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Income Limits

Low to moderate income; Stark County income limits apply

Check AMI limits for your county →

Repayment Terms

Deferred loan; specific forgiveness terms should be confirmed directly with City of Massillon Housing office

Additional Requirements

Purchase price and household income limits apply

Notes

First-time homebuyers only

Visit Program Website ↗

Home Ownership Loan Program

Warren County

open
20 (max $5,000)down payment assistance
agencydeferred loan📍 Trumbull
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
No
Income Limit
Not specified
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
Single-Family
Max Price
$156,655

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
Assistance Type
deferred loan
Profession
All
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Interest Rate

None

Repayment Terms

Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance

Visit Program Website ↗

City of Canton Down Payment Assistance

Community Building Partnership of Stark County Inc

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$5,000down payment assistance
agencydeferred loan📍 Stark
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
Yes
Income Limit
Not specified
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
Max Price
$273,000

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
Assistance Type
deferred loan
Profession
All
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Repayment Terms

Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance

Visit Program Website ↗

Ohio Heroes Program

Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA)

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0.25% interest rate reduction on first mortgage, combinable with standard DPAdown payment assistance
statedeferred loan📍 Statewide
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
No
Income Limit
Varies
Min Credit Score
640+
Property Types
Not specified
Max Price
Not specified

Quick Facts

Loan Types
FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional
Assistance Type
deferred loan
Profession
teachers, veterans, law enforcement, healthcare wo...
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Income Limits

Varies

Check AMI limits for your county →

Repayment Terms

Per standard OHFA DPA terms

Additional Requirements

Must be veteran, active-duty military, police, fire, EMT, paramedic, physician, nurse, teacher, or administrator

Notes

Check program requirements. Occupancy requirement: Primary residence

Visit Program Website ↗

Homebuyer Down Payment Assistance Program

City of Middletown

open
Amount not specified
agencydeferred loan📍 Butler
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
No
Income Limit
Not specified
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
Single-Family, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD
Max Price
Not specified

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1
Assistance Type
deferred loan
Profession
All
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Interest Rate

None

Visit Program Website ↗

Grants for Grads

Ohio Housing Finance Agency

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3.5down payment assistance
agencydeferred loan📍 Adams, Allen, Ashland, Ashtabula, Athens, Auglaize, Belmont,...
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
Yes
Income Limit
Not specified
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium, 2 units, 3 units, 4 units
Max Price
$1,279,401

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1, USDA-RD
Assistance Type
deferred loan
Profession
All
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Repayment Terms

Deferred Payment - Repayable at sale or refinance

Visit Program Website ↗

Next Home Down Payment Assistance program

Ohio Housing Finance Agency

verify
Amount not specified
agencydeferred loan📍 Adams, Allen, Ashland, Ashtabula, Athens, Auglaize, Belmont,...
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
No
Income Limit
Not specified
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium, 2 units, 3 units, 4 units, Manufactur...
Max Price
$1,279,401

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1, USDA-RD
Assistance Type
deferred loan
Profession
All
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Repayment Terms

Deferred Payment - Repayment at sale or refinance

Visit Program Website ↗

OHFA Down Payment Assistance

Ohio Housing Finance Agency

verify
3down payment assistance
agencydeferred loan📍 Adams, Allen, Ashland, Ashtabula, Athens
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
No
Income Limit
Not specified
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium, 2 units, 3 units, 4 units
Max Price
$1,279,401

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Freddie Mac, VA, USDA-RD, FannieMae +3, FHA, Fannie Mae +1, FannieMae +2, Fannie Mae, USDA-RD +4
Assistance Type
deferred loan
Profession
All
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Repayment Terms

Fully forgiven at closing or forgiven on a schedule

Visit Program Website ↗

Ohio Heros Down Payment Assistance Program

Ohio Housing Finance Agency

verify
Amount not specified
agencydeferred loan📍 Adams, Allen, Ashland, Ashtabula, Athens, Auglaize
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
Not specified
Income Limit
Not specified
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
Single-Family, Townhouse/PUD, Condominium, 2 units, 3 units, 4 units
Max Price
$1,279,401

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA, VA, USDA-RD +1, USDA-RD
Assistance Type
deferred loan
Profession
All
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Repayment Terms

Deferred Payment - Repayment at sales or finance

Visit Program Website ↗

Chenoa Fund FHA Down Payment Assistance Forgivable

CBC Mortgage Agency (Chenoa Fund)

verify
5down payment assistance
agencydeferred loan📍 US
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
No
Income Limit
Not specified
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
Single-Family, 2 units, Leasehold, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD, Manufactured
Max Price
$766,550

Quick Facts

Loan Types
FHA
Assistance Type
deferred loan
Profession
All
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Interest Rate

0

Repayment Terms

0

Visit Program Website ↗

Chenoa Fund FHA Down Payment Assistance Repayable

CBC Mortgage Agency (Chenoa Fund)

verify
5down payment assistance
agencydeferred loan📍 US
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
No
Income Limit
Not specified
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
Single-Family, 2 units, Leasehold, Condominium, Townhouse/PUD, Manufactured
Max Price
$766,550

Quick Facts

Loan Types
FHA
Assistance Type
deferred loan
Profession
All
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Interest Rate

Note rate 1% above the first mortgage note rate

Repayment Terms

This loan does require a monthly payment on the second mortgage.

Visit Program Website ↗

Second Mortgages (2)

These programs provide DPA as a second mortgage, sometimes with monthly payments, sometimes deferred.

Cleveland Heights Down Payment Assistance Program

City of Cleveland Heights / Home Repair Resource Center (HRRC)

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UP TO 17% for 80% AMI borrowers; UP TO 13% for 120% AMI borrowers (max $30,000 in both cases) (max UP TO $30,000)down payment assistance
citysecond mortgage📍 City of Cleveland Heights
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
Yes
Income Limit
At or below HUD income guidelines by hou...
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
single-family, 2-unit
Max Price
$313,500 (single-family); $402,000 (two-family)

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Conventional, FHA, VA
Assistance Type
second mortgage
Profession
all
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Income Limits

At or below HUD income guidelines by household size (updated annually)

Check AMI limits for your county →

Interest Rate

0%

Repayment Terms

Deferred second mortgage; repayment terms to be confirmed with HRRC directly

Additional Requirements

Loan secured by second mortgage held by City of Cleveland Heights; note that Cuyahoga County DPA excludes Cleveland Heights so this is the dedicated local program; ARPA-funded program

Notes

First-time homebuyers; income-eligible buyers of 1- and 2-family homes

Visit Program Website ↗

Montgomery County Down Payment Assistance Program

HomeOwnership Center of Greater Dayton

closed
10% of purchase price (max UP TO 10% of purchase price, maximum $8,000)down payment assistance
countysecond mortgage📍 Montgomery County (excludes Cities of Dayton and Kettering)
See eligibility details ↓

Eligibility Snapshot

First-Time Buyer
Yes
Income Limit
80% AMI
Min Credit Score
Not specified
Property Types
Not specified
Max Price
$8,000

Quick Facts

Loan Types
Not specified
Assistance Type
second mortgage
Profession
all
Homebuyer Ed.
Yes

Income Limits

At or below 80% AMI

Check AMI limits for your county →

Interest Rate

0%

Repayment Terms

Deferred - no repayment unless property sold, refinanced, ownership transferred, owner vacates, or property becomes rental/investment.

Additional Requirements

Excludes Trotwood and Jefferson/Harrison Township areas served by separate Northwest Dayton program

Notes

First-time homebuyers required

Visit Program Website ↗

How to Apply for Down Payment Assistance in Ohio

  1. 1

    Check Your Eligibility

    Use our free eligibility tool to see which programs match your situation. Enter your state, city, income, and target home price.

  2. 2

    Contact the Program Administrator

    Each program has its own application process. Visit the program website or call the administering agency to get started. Many programs work through approved lenders.

  3. 3

    Get Pre-Approved with a Participating Lender

    Not every lender participates in every DPA program. Work with a lender who is approved for the programs you want. The program administrator can provide a list of approved lenders.

  4. 4

    Complete Homebuyer Education (If Required)

    Many programs require a HUD-approved homebuyer education course. Online options through eHome America and Framework are accepted by most programs.

  5. 5

    Close & Move In

    DPA funds are typically disbursed at closing alongside your first mortgage. Your lender coordinates the DPA program paperwork as part of the loan process.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much down payment assistance can I get in Ohio?

Up to $30,000 through available programs in Ohio. Multiple programs can often be combined for even more assistance. The exact amount depends on your income, location, and the specific program requirements.

Do I need to be a first-time homebuyer?

Not always. 16 programs in Ohio are open to repeat buyers. "First-time buyer" is typically defined as not having owned a home in the past three years.

What credit score do I need?

As low as 620 for some programs. Most programs require 620-660. Higher credit scores may qualify you for more programs and better terms.

Can I combine multiple DPA programs?

In many cases, yes. Some programs are specifically designed to be layered with others. For example, you might combine a state grant with a local deferred loan. Check with each program administrator about stacking eligibility.

Help Us Keep This Data Accurate

Know about a DPA program in Ohio that's changed, closed, or one we're missing? This directory is community-maintained. Your input helps thousands of homebuyers find the right programs.

Submit a Program Update →

Get Your Free Ohio DPA Action Plan

Tell us about your situation and we will put together a personalized guide to the programs you may qualify for.

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