Bootcamp For Buyers

Ohio Your Choice! Down Payment Assistance Program

The Ohio Your Choice! Down Payment Assistance Program, offered by the Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA), is designed to help homebuyers reduce upfront costs associated with purchasing a home. This program provides flexible financial assistance for down payments and closing costs, empowering eligible residents to achieve affordable and sustainable homeownership.

Benefits

  • Provides 2.5% or 5% of the home’s purchase price in financial assistance for down payments and closing costs.
  • Offers flexible repayment terms, with no repayment required if the buyer resides in the home for at least seven years.
  • Supports both first-time and repeat homebuyers who meet eligibility requirements.
  • Can be combined with OHFA’s mortgage options, including competitive fixed-rate loans, for comprehensive financial support.
  • Encourages long-term housing stability and equity building for participants.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Applicants must meet income limits, which vary based on household size and property location within Ohio.
  • The property must be located in Ohio and used as the buyer’s primary residence.
  • A minimum credit score of 640 is typically required, with lender-specific underwriting criteria also applicable.
  • Participants must contribute a minimum of 1% of the home’s purchase price from their own funds.
  • Completion of an OHFA-approved homebuyer education course is required to ensure preparedness for homeownership responsibilities.

Additional Information

The Ohio Your Choice! Down Payment Assistance Program is a valuable resource for homebuyers seeking to minimize upfront costs and secure stable housing. By offering flexible financial assistance and pairing it with competitive mortgage options, the program helps eligible buyers achieve their homeownership goals. Administered by the Ohio Housing Finance Agency, this initiative strengthens communities and promotes sustainable homeownership across the state.

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Program

What is the Ohio Your Choice! Down Payment Assistance Program?

The Ohio Your Choice! Down Payment Assistance Program provides financial assistance to eligible homebuyers for covering down payment and closing costs when purchasing a home in Ohio.

Who qualifies for the Your Choice! Down Payment Assistance Program?

Eligibility is open to first-time and repeat homebuyers who meet income, credit, and property requirements. Applicants must use the home as their primary residence.

How much assistance does the program provide?

The program offers either 2.5% or 5% of the home’s purchase price as down payment and closing cost assistance.

Is the assistance provided as a loan or a grant?

The assistance is a forgivable loan, which is forgiven after seven years as long as the buyer meets program requirements and remains in the home.

What is the minimum credit score required for the program?

A minimum credit score of 640 is typically required, although higher scores may improve eligibility and loan terms.

Are there income limits for the Your Choice! Down Payment Assistance Program?

Yes, income limits apply and vary based on household size and location. These limits are updated annually to reflect market conditions.

What types of properties are eligible for the program?

Eligible properties include single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums. Manufactured homes may qualify if they meet program guidelines and are permanently affixed to a foundation.

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Can the program be used for newly constructed homes?

Yes, newly built homes are eligible as long as they meet program requirements and are intended to be the buyer’s primary residence.

Is homebuyer education required for the Your Choice! Down Payment Assistance Program?

Yes, completing a homebuyer education course is mandatory to ensure buyers are prepared for the responsibilities of homeownership.

What is the maximum purchase price allowed under the program?

The maximum purchase price is generally capped at $400,000, although this may vary based on the property’s location.

Can the Your Choice! Down Payment Assistance Program be combined with other assistance programs?

Yes, eligible buyers can combine this program with other state or local assistance programs to maximize financial benefits.

Are there debt-to-income (DTI) ratio limits for the program?

Yes, the program typically allows a maximum DTI ratio of 45%, though exceptions may apply depending on other financial factors.

What fees are associated with the Your Choice! Down Payment Assistance Program?

Standard loan-related fees, such as origination, appraisal, and closing costs, may apply. Borrowers should confirm these costs with their lender.

What happens if I sell or refinance my home before the loan is forgiven?

If you sell or refinance before the seven-year forgiveness period is complete, you may need to repay a prorated portion of the assistance.

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Can the program be used to refinance an existing home?

No, the Your Choice! Down Payment Assistance Program is designed specifically for purchasing a primary residence and does not apply to refinancing.

Are there reserve requirements for the program?

No specific reserve requirements are mandated, but having financial reserves may strengthen an applicant’s overall loan profile.

Are there location restrictions for the program?

Yes, the property must be located in Ohio, and additional guidelines may apply depending on whether the home is in a targeted or non-targeted area.

What are the benefits of the Your Choice! Down Payment Assistance Program?

The program reduces upfront costs through forgivable down payment assistance and offers affordable mortgage options to support homeownership.

How do I apply for the Your Choice! Down Payment Assistance Program?

Applicants must meet eligibility requirements and work with a program-approved lender who will guide them through the application process.

What is the loan term for the assistance provided under the program?

The assistance is structured as a forgivable loan with a term of seven years, provided all program conditions are met.

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