Buying a house without a down payment in 2026 is primarily possible through specific government-backed programs or strategic financial combinations. While the traditional 20% down payment is often cited, the median for first-time buyers in 2025 was actually . True zero-down options exist but are restricted by military service or geographic location. True Zero-Down Payment Programs
: Designed for low-to-moderate-income buyers in "rural" areas.
: Must obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) . buying a house without a downpayment
: You can negotiate for the seller to pay some or all of these costs (up to 3% for conventional, 4% for VA, and 6% for FHA/USDA).
: Allows for 1% down , with the lender contributing the remaining 2% as a non-repayable grant. Buying a house without a down payment in
: Most programs allow family members to "gift" you the money needed for closing costs, provided you have a formal gift letter stating it doesn't need to be repaid. Program Type Min. Down Payment Typical Min. Credit Score Income/Location Limits VA Loan 580–620+ None (Service-based) USDA Loan 640 (Streamlined) Yes (Location & Income) FHA Loan 580 (for 3.5% down) Conventional Some programs only
Buying a house without a down payment | Multi-Prêts Mortgages : Allows for 1% down , with the
Only two major federal programs consistently offer financing for qualified individuals: