Facebook
X
Pinterest
Copy Link
🏡 How to Buy a Home in Tacoma with Little or No Down Payment
If you’ve been dreaming about owning a home in Tacoma or Lakewood, but feel like your savings aren’t quite where they need to be, well you’re not alone. The good news? You don’t always need a large down payment to buy a home.
There are several local and statewide programs that help homebuyers purchase with little or no money down – and many people don’t even realize they qualify.
💡 Why Down Payment Assistance Matters
Saving for a 3%–20% down payment can feel overwhelming, especially with rent and everyday costs continuing to rise. That’s where down payment assistance (DPA) programs come in. These initiatives are designed to make homeownership accessible by helping qualified buyers cover all or part of their required down payment and closing costs.
🏦 Local Programs Available in Tacoma & Lakewood
Here are some of the most popular programs available to Washington homebuyers right now:
1. Washington State Housing Finance Commission (WSHFC) Home Advantage Program – WSHFC
Offers competitive interest rates and up to 5% of the loan amount in assistance. It can be combined with federal programs or additional grants for greater savings.
2. House Key Opportunity Programs
These programs are great for lower-income buyers and include deferred-payment loans with low or no interest — ideal for those who need a little extra help getting started.
3. USDA Loans – Zero Down Payment
If you’re open to suburban or rural communities near Pierce County, USDA loans provide 100% financing, which means no down payment required and low mortgage insurance costs.
4. VA Loans – Zero Down for Veterans
For military members, veterans, and eligible spouses, VA loans are one of the best benefits available. They offer no down payment and no private mortgage insurance (PMI) — a powerful way to save thousands over time.
💬 Who Qualifies for These Programs?
While each program has its own eligibility requirements, most consider:
-
Household income limits
-
Credit score (often 620 or higher, but not always)
-
Debt-to-income ratio
-
Completion of a homebuyer education course (I teach these regularly!)
Even if you’ve been turned down for a mortgage before, you might qualify under one of these programs today.
🔍 How to Get Started
If you’re unsure where to begin, don’t worry, that’s where I come in.
Here’s how I help my clients step-by-step:
-
We start with a quick homeownership readiness chat – no pressure, just clarity.
-
I connect you with trusted local lenders who specialize in down payment assistance.
-
Together, we build a realistic plan to get you into your first home; sometimes with as little as $0 down.
✨ You Might Be Closer Than You Think
Homeownership in Tacoma and Lakewood may be more achievable than you imagine. With the right guidance and the right programs, you could be unlocking the door to your first home sooner than you think.
📲 Ready to find out what you qualify for?
Send me a message or schedule your free consultation today and let’s explore your down payment assistance options together.
