Ohio First-Time Home Buyer Programs 2026 — OHFA Up to 5% (Forgivable)
⚡ OHIO OHFA QUICK FACTS 2026
- 💰 Best DPA: OHFA 5% — forgivable after 7 years
- 📋 Credit minimum: 640
- 💵 Income limit: Up to $132,000 (varies by county)
- 👩🎓 Grads: Extra 0.25% rate discount if you graduated in Ohio
- 🦸 Heroes: Teachers, nurses, police get 0.25% better rate
OHFA's Your Choice! program gives Ohio buyers up to 5% of the purchase price as down payment assistance — and it's completely forgiven after 7 years. On a $250,000 home: $12,500 free. Here's everything you need to qualify.
Ohio OHFA Programs Compared (2026)
| Program | Assistance | Forgiven After | Min Credit | Income Limit | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OHFA Your Choice! 2.5% | 2.5% | 7 years | 640+ | Up to $132K | Best for most buyers |
| OHFA Your Choice! 5% ⭐ MAX | 5% | 7 years | 640+ | Up to $132K | Maximum assistance |
| OHFA Grants for Grads | 2.5-5% | 5 years | 640+ | Up to $132K | College graduates in OH |
| OHFA Ohio Heroes | 2.5-5% + 0.25% rate | 7 years | 640+ | Up to $132K | Teachers, first responders |
| Ohio MCC Tax Credit | Up to $2K/yr | Annual tax credit | 640+ | Varies | Combine with DPA |
| Columbus HAP | Up to $30K | 10 years | 580+ | Up to $95K | Columbus buyers only |
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OHFA Income Limits by County (2026)
| County (City) | 1-2 Person | 3+ Person |
|---|---|---|
| Franklin (Columbus) | $102,000 | $117,600 |
| Cuyahoga (Cleveland) | $104,000 | $120,000 |
| Hamilton (Cincinnati) | $100,000 | $115,200 |
| Summit (Akron) | $96,000 | $110,400 |
| Lucas (Toledo) | $92,000 | $105,800 |
| Montgomery (Dayton) | $90,000 | $103,500 |
Source: OHFA 2026. Targeted areas have 20% higher limits. Check ohiohome.org for all 88 counties.
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Ohio First-Time Buyer FAQ
What are the best first-time home buyer programs in Ohio in 2026?
What are the OHFA income limits for 2026?
Is the OHFA Your Choice! down payment assistance forgivable?
What credit score do I need for Ohio first-time buyer programs?
Can I use OHFA programs in any Ohio city?
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