First-Time Home Buyer Indiana 2026

Your complete guide to buying your first home in Indiana. 2+ down payment assistance programs, FHA loans from 5.9%, and step-by-step guidance.

Median Price
$225,000
Min Down (FHA)
$7,875
DPA Programs
2+
Best Rate
5.9%

What First-Time Buyer Programs Are Available in Indiana?

Indiana offers 2 major first-time home buyer assistance programs. These include IHCDA Next Home, Indiana MCC. Programs provide up to 3.5% of loan in down payment assistance through grants, forgivable loans, and below-market interest rates.

How Much Do I Need to Buy in Indiana?

You can buy a home in Indiana with as little as $0 down. VA and USDA loans require zero down payment. FHA loans need just 3.5% ($$7,875), and conventional loans start at 3% ($$6,750) on the median price of $225,000.

Loan TypeDown Payment$ AmountMonthly P&IMin Credit
VA Loan0%$0$1,327620
USDA Loan0%$0$1,363640
Conventional 3%3%$6,750$1,323620
FHA Loan3.5%$7,875$1,288580
Conventional 20%20%$45,000$1,091620

Indiana Down Payment Assistance Programs

1

IHCDA Next Home

DPA up to 3.5% for FHA or conventional

Up to 3.5% of loanforgivable
2

Indiana MCC

Mortgage Credit Certificate for tax savings

Up to 25% of interestlow interest

5 Steps to Buy Your First Home in Indiana

To buy your first home in Indiana, 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.

1

Check Your Credit & Finances

Review your credit score (aim for 620+), calculate your debt-to-income ratio, and save for closing costs. In Indiana, you may need as little as $7,875 for an FHA down payment.

2

Get Pre-Approved

Compare rates from at least 3 lenders. Current Indiana rates: 6.1% (30-year), 5.9% (FHA). Pre-approval shows sellers you're serious and locks your rate.

3

Apply for Indiana DPA Programs

Indiana has 2+ DPA programs. The IHCDA Next Home offers up to 3.5% of loan. Apply earlyβ€”funding can be limited.

4

House Hunt & Make an Offer

Popular cities in Indiana: Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Evansville, South Bend, Carmel. Median price is $225,000 (+6.2% YoY). Work with a local real estate agent who knows the market.

5

Close on Your New Home

Closing costs in Indiana typically run 2-5% of the purchase price ($6,750-$11,250). Some DPA programs also cover closing costs.

Start Your Indiana Home Buying Journey

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

Get Pre-Approved Now

Indiana First-Time Buyer FAQ

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

Indiana offers 2 major programs: IHCDA Next Home, Indiana MCC. These provide grants, forgivable loans, and below-market rates for down payment and closing cost assistance.

How much down payment do I need in Indiana?

As little as $0 (VA/USDA), $$6,750 (3% conventional), or $$7,875 (3.5% FHA) on the median price of $225,000.

What income do I need to buy in Indiana?

Using the 28% rule, you'd need approximately $$55,193/year. The median household income in Indiana is $58,235.

What is the FHA loan limit in Indiana?

The 2026 FHA loan limit in Indiana is $472,030. The conforming loan limit is $766,550.

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