💰 Down Payment Assistance
The money most buyers never claim
Every year, down payment assistance goes unused because buyers don’t know it exists. The Nebraska Investment Finance Authority (NIFA) offers programs that pair a 30-year first mortgage with down payment and closing cost assistance for qualified buyers — stackable with FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional loans. Income and purchase-price limits apply, and a homebuyer education course is part of the deal.
Is this you?
Down Payment Assistance tend to be a great fit for…
- First-time buyers (haven’t owned in the last 3 years)
- Qualified veterans & active military (NIFA Military Home)
- Buyers who qualify on income but are short on savings
- Anyone told “come back when you’ve saved more”
Questions friends actually ask
Down Payment Assistance: straight answers
How does down payment assistance work in Nebraska?
NIFA’s Homebuyer Assistance (HBA) program pairs your first mortgage with a small second loan that covers down payment and closing costs for eligible buyers. Alex works with these programs and handles the pairing for you — including the required homebuyer education course.
Do I have to be a first-time buyer to get NIFA help?
Mostly yes — NIFA’s core programs are for first-time buyers (defined as not owning a home in the last three years), buyers in targeted areas, and qualified veterans. NIFA’s Welcome Home program also serves repeat buyers. Income and purchase-price limits apply and vary by location and household size.
Is down payment assistance free money or a loan?
It’s a loan, not a grant — NIFA’s assistance comes as a second mortgage with its own modest terms. Alex will walk you through exactly what your version costs, in plain English, before you commit to anything.
Keep exploring
Conventional Loans
The workhorse of home financing — flexible terms, competitive costs, and down payments as low as 3% for first-time buyers.
Learn more →FHA Loans
The first-time buyer favorite — 3.5% down, friendlier credit requirements, and forgiving guidelines for real-life finances.
Learn more →VA Loans
For those who served — $0 down, no monthly mortgage insurance, and some of the strongest terms in all of lending.
Learn more →Not sure if down payment assistance are right for you?
That’s literally what Alex is for. One conversation, all your options side by side, zero pressure to move forward.