Can first-time homebuyers qualify for a mortgage with 0% down?
Absolutely—yes, some first‑time homebuyers can qualify for a mortgage with 0% down, but it depends on the loan program and your eligibility. Zero‑down options aren’t universal, but they’re very real for the buyers who fit the criteria.
Here’s the quick breakdown:
VA Loans (0% Down)
If you’re a veteran, active‑duty service member, or eligible surviving spouse, the VA loan is hands‑down one of the best mortgage programs out there.
No down payment, flexible credit guidelines, and no private mortgage insurance (PMI). It’s a huge win for first‑time buyers who qualify.
USDA Loans (0% Down)
USDA loans are designed for rural and some suburban areas, and many towns qualify even if they don’t feel “rural.”
If your household income fits the program limits and the property is in a USDA‑eligible area, you can buy with 0% down.
Fun fact: Parts of Massachusetts—including areas around Plymouth County and Bristol County—have pockets that qualify.
Low‑Down‑Payment Alternatives (Not 0%, but close)
Even if you don’t qualify for VA or USDA, you still have strong options:
- FHA loans: 3.5% down
- Conventional 97 loans: 3% down
- MassHousing programs: Down‑payment assistance for qualified buyers
These aren’t zero‑down, but they get you very close—and many buyers pair them with down‑payment assistance to effectively reduce their upfront cost.
A Quick Reality Check
Zero‑down loans are amazing, but they’re not automatically the best fit for everyone. They can come with:
- Geographic or service‑related eligibility requirements
- Mortgage insurance or guarantee fees
- Slightly higher monthly payments
Still, for the right buyer, they’re a powerful way to get into a home sooner without waiting years to save a down payment.
Bottom Line
If you’re a first‑time buyer wondering whether 0% down is possible, the answer is a confident yes—if you qualify for VA or USDA. And even if you don’t, there are plenty of low‑down‑payment programs that make homeownership far more accessible than most people think.