🏠How to Buy a Home With Zero Down Payment in 2025 (Yes, It’s Possible!)💸
✅ Key Takeaways
✅ Several loan programs offer 100% or more financing—even for repeat buyers
✅ Eligible buyers can receive up to $40,000 for down payment or closing cost assistance
✅ Programs are available across Hampton Roads, including Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, and surrounding cities
✅ VA loans, Virginia Housing, USDA, and FHLB programs all provide no-down options
✅ Scheduling a quick consult could save you thousands and fast-track your path to ownership
What Does “Zero Down” Really Mean?
When we say “zero down,” we’re talking about no required down payment—which is typically the largest upfront cost in a home purchase.
Most buyers put down 3–20% of the purchase price, but with the right loan program, combined with available grants, that can reduce the down payment to zero.
That said, no money down doesn't mean no money out of pocket. There are still costs associated with buying a home that are outside of the purchase price like closing fees, inspections, apprasial, and prepaid taxes or insurance. However, knowing how to work with these programs is key because certain programs can be stacked together to maximize benefits and cover most of your out of pocket expenses.
Top Zero Down and 100% Financing Loans and Grants
| Program | Buyer Type | Max Benefit | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| VA Loan | Veterans & Active Duty | 100% Financing | No PMI, flexible credit, no down payment |
| Virginia Housing DPA Grant | First-Time Buyers | 100% Financing | Free grant for FHA or Conventional loans; never repaid |
| Virginia Housing Plus Second | First-Time & Repeat Buyers | 101.5% Financing | Covers down payment and some closing costs (Bond and non bond) |
| FHLB Community Partners | First-Time & Repeat (Eligible Professions) | Up to $20,000 | Grants for teachers, first responders, healthcare, vets |
| FHLB First-Time Buyer | First-Time Buyers | Up to $17,500 | Helps with down payment or closing costs |
| Local Community Grants | First-Time Buyers | Up to $40,000 | City programs for Portsmouth, Chespeake, Norfolk |
🧠 Who Qualifies for These Programs?
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Virginia Housing offers multiple programs with different income caps. For example, standard grant programs are available to households of 1–2 people earning up to $84,000 annually.
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If your income is higher, you may still qualify for the Plus Second Mortgage (which offers up to 101.5% financing) or the Expanded Non-Bond program, which allows for 100% financing with income limits up to $105,000 for households of 1–2 people or $121,000 for households of 3 or more.
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The Expanded Non-Bond program can go as high as $160,000, depending on location and family size.
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FHLB (Federal Home Loan Bank) programs and some local city grants typically have lower income limits, often capped at 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI). These limits vary by location and household size. You can check your eligibility using this income calculator:
👉 FHLB Income Qualification Tool
Here’s a general overview of who qualifies:
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First-time buyer doesn’t always mean “never owned”—you may qualify if you haven’t owned a home in the past three years.
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VA loans are available to veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses.
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Virginia Housing programs serve both first-time and repeat buyers, depending on the specific loan or grant, and require homebuyer education plus working with an approved lender.
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FHLB and city-sponsored grants may be available to both first-time and repeat buyers as well. These typically include income limits based on AMI, and often require homebuyer education and approved lender participation.
❓ FAQs About Buying a Home With No Money Down
1. Do I have to be a first-time buyer to get zero down?
No. VA loans, Virginia Housing Plus, and FHLB Community Partner grants are open to repeat buyers too.
2. What’s the catch with these programs?
There’s no “catch,” but you do have to meet certain requirements—credit score, income, property condition, etc. Some require homebuyer education or working with specific lenders.
3. Can I combine down payment assistance with a regular mortgage?
Yes. Virginia Housing, for example, offers grants or second mortgage options that pair with FHA or Conventional loans.
4. Do I still need money for closing costs?
Often, yes—but some programs help cover them. And in some cases, sellers may agree to contribute toward closing costs as part of your purchase offer.
5. How do I know which program is best for me?
That’s what consultations are for! We’ll match your goals and finances with the programs that give you the best opportunity to buy smart and save money.
🔑 How to Get Started (and Avoid Common Mistakes)
If you’re even thinking about buying in 2025, start preparing now. Here’s what to do:
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Check your credit and fix any issues that could impact your approval
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Know your numbers — income, monthly debts, rough price range
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Get pre-approved by a lender familiar with local 100% financing programs
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Book a free consultation to walk through your options and strategy
✨ Ready to Buy with Zero Down?
Buying a home with no money down isn’t just for the lucky few—it’s for informed buyers who take the time to explore their options.
Let’s talk about your goals, your eligibility, and what it takes to make homeownership happen this year—without draining your savings.
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