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

You can buy a home in Nebraska with as little as 0% down (VA/USDA), 3% down ($7,350 conventional), or 3.5% down ($8,575 FHA) on the median-priced home of $245,000.

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

To afford the median-priced home in Nebraska ($245,000) with a 30-year mortgage at 6.08%, you typically need a household income of approximately $59,970 per year (using the 28% rule). The median income in Nebraska is $63,229.

What is the FHA loan limit in Nebraska for 2026?

The FHA loan limit in Nebraska 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 Nebraska 2026

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

Nebraska offers 2 major first-time buyer programs including NIFA Homebuyer Assistance, NIFA Military Home. 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 Nebraska. 2+ down payment assistance programs, FHA loans from 5.88%, and step-by-step guidance.

Median Price

$245,000

Min Down (FHA)

$8,575

DPA Programs

Best Rate

5.88%

Check My Nebraska Eligibility

What First-Time Buyer Programs Are Available in Nebraska?

Nebraska offers 2 major first-time home buyer assistance programs. These include NIFA Homebuyer Assistance, NIFA Military Home. Programs provide up to $10,000 in down payment assistance through grants, forgivable loans, and below-market interest rates.

How Much Do I Need to Buy in Nebraska?

You can buy a home in Nebraska with as little as $0 down. VA and USDA loans require zero down payment. FHA loans need just 3.5% ($$8,575), and conventional loans start at 3% ($$7,350) on the median price of $245,000.

Loan Type	Down Payment	$ Amount	Monthly P&I	Min Credit
VA Loan	0%	$0	$1,442	620
USDA Loan	0%	$0	$1,482	640
Conventional 3%	3%	$7,350	$1,437	620
FHA Loan	3.5%	$8,575	$1,399	580
Conventional 20%	20%	$49,000	$1,185	620

Nebraska Down Payment Assistance Programs

NIFA Homebuyer Assistance

DPA grants and forgivable loans

Up to $10,000forgivable

NIFA Military Home

Special program for military in Nebraska

Up to $5,000grant

5 Steps to Buy Your First Home in Nebraska

To buy your first home in Nebraska, 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 Nebraska, you may need as little as $8,575 for an FHA down payment.

Get Pre-Approved

Compare rates from at least 3 lenders. Current Nebraska rates: 6.08% (30-year), 5.88% (FHA). Pre-approval shows sellers you're serious and locks your rate.

Apply for Nebraska DPA Programs

Nebraska has 2+ DPA programs. The NIFA Homebuyer Assistance offers up to $10,000. Apply early—funding can be limited.

House Hunt & Make an Offer

Popular cities in Nebraska: Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue, Grand Island, Kearney. Median price is $245,000 (+5.2% YoY). Work with a local real estate agent who knows the market.

Close on Your New Home

Closing costs in Nebraska typically run 2-5% of the purchase price ($7,350-$12,250). Some DPA programs also cover closing costs.

Start Your Nebraska Home Buying Journey

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

Get Pre-Approved Now

Nebraska First-Time Buyer FAQ

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

Nebraska offers 2 major programs: NIFA Homebuyer Assistance, NIFA Military Home. These provide grants, forgivable loans, and below-market rates for down payment and closing cost assistance.