How much down payment do I need to buy a house in Delaware?

You can buy a home in Delaware with as little as 0% down (VA/USDA), 3% down ($10,050 conventional), or 3.5% down ($11,725 FHA) on the median-priced home of $335,000.

What income do I need to buy a home in Delaware?

To afford the median-priced home in Delaware ($335,000) with a 30-year mortgage at 6.15%, you typically need a household income of approximately $82,621 per year (using the 28% rule). The median income in Delaware is $72,724.

What is the FHA loan limit in Delaware for 2026?

The FHA loan limit in Delaware for 2026 is $472,030. This means first-time buyers using FHA loans can finance up to this amount with just 3.5% down payment.

First-Time Home Buyer Delaware 2026

Q: What first-time home buyer programs are available in Delaware?

Delaware offers 2 major first-time buyer programs including DSHA Preferred Plus, Welcome Home Program. These programs provide grants, forgivable loans, and below-market rates to help with down payment and closing costs.

Your complete guide to buying your first home in Delaware. 2+ down payment assistance programs, FHA loans from 5.95%, and step-by-step guidance.

Median Price

$335,000

Min Down (FHA)

$11,725

DPA Programs

Best Rate

5.95%

Check My Delaware Eligibility

What First-Time Buyer Programs Are Available in Delaware?

Delaware offers 2 major first-time home buyer assistance programs. These include DSHA Preferred Plus, Welcome Home Program. Programs provide up to 5% of loan in down payment assistance through grants, forgivable loans, and below-market interest rates.

How Much Do I Need to Buy in Delaware?

You can buy a home in Delaware with as little as $0 down. VA and USDA loans require zero down payment. FHA loans need just 3.5% ($$11,725), and conventional loans start at 3% ($$10,050) on the median price of $335,000.

Loan Type	Down Payment	$ Amount	Monthly P&I	Min Credit
VA Loan	0%	$0	$1,987	620
USDA Loan	0%	$0	$2,041	640
Conventional 3%	3%	$10,050	$1,980	620
FHA Loan	3.5%	$11,725	$1,928	580
Conventional 20%	20%	$67,000	$1,633	620

Delaware Down Payment Assistance Programs

DSHA Preferred Plus

DPA assistance up to 5% of mortgage amount

Up to 5% of loanforgivable

Welcome Home Program

Competitive rates with DPA for first-time buyers

Up to $10,000grant

5 Steps to Buy Your First Home in Delaware

To buy your first home in Delaware, start by checking your credit score, getting pre-approved, and researching DPA programs. The entire process typically takes 30-60 days from pre-approval to closing. Here's your step-by-step roadmap.

Check Your Credit & Finances

Review your credit score (aim for 620+), calculate your debt-to-income ratio, and save for closing costs. In Delaware, you may need as little as $11,725 for an FHA down payment.

Get Pre-Approved

Compare rates from at least 3 lenders. Current Delaware rates: 6.15% (30-year), 5.95% (FHA). Pre-approval shows sellers you're serious and locks your rate.

Apply for Delaware DPA Programs

Delaware has 2+ DPA programs. The DSHA Preferred Plus offers up to 5% of loan. Apply early—funding can be limited.

House Hunt & Make an Offer

Popular cities in Delaware: Wilmington, Dover, Newark, Middletown, Bear. Median price is $335,000 (+6.5% YoY). Work with a local real estate agent who knows the market.

Close on Your New Home

Closing costs in Delaware typically run 2-5% of the purchase price ($10,050-$16,750). Some DPA programs also cover closing costs.

Start Your Delaware Home Buying Journey

Get pre-approved in minutes and see what you qualify for.

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Delaware First-Time Buyer FAQ

What first-time home buyer programs are available in Delaware?

Delaware offers 2 major programs: DSHA Preferred Plus, Welcome Home Program. These provide grants, forgivable loans, and below-market rates for down payment and closing cost assistance.