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

You can buy a home in Ohio with as little as 0% down (VA/USDA), 3% down ($6,450 conventional), or 3.5% down ($7,525 FHA) on the median-priced home of $215,000.

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

To afford the median-priced home in Ohio ($215,000) with a 30-year mortgage at 6.1%, you typically need a household income of approximately $52,740 per year (using the 28% rule). The median income in Ohio is $58,116.

What is the FHA loan limit in Ohio for 2026?

The FHA loan limit in Ohio 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 Ohio 2026

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

Ohio offers 2 major first-time buyer programs including OHFA Your Choice DPA, OHFA Grants for Grads. 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 Ohio. 2+ down payment assistance programs, FHA loans from 5.9%, and step-by-step guidance.

Median Price

$215,000

Min Down (FHA)

$7,525

DPA Programs

Best Rate

5.9%

Check My Ohio Eligibility

What First-Time Buyer Programs Are Available in Ohio?

Ohio offers 2 major first-time home buyer assistance programs. These include OHFA Your Choice DPA, OHFA Grants for Grads. Programs provide up to 5% of price in down payment assistance through grants, forgivable loans, and below-market interest rates.

How Much Do I Need to Buy in Ohio?

You can buy a home in Ohio with as little as $0 down. VA and USDA loans require zero down payment. FHA loans need just 3.5% ($$7,525), and conventional loans start at 3% ($$6,450) on the median price of $215,000.

Loan Type	Down Payment	$ Amount	Monthly P&I	Min Credit
VA Loan	0%	$0	$1,268	620
USDA Loan	0%	$0	$1,303	640
Conventional 3%	3%	$6,450	$1,264	620
FHA Loan	3.5%	$7,525	$1,231	580
Conventional 20%	20%	$43,000	$1,042	620

Ohio Down Payment Assistance Programs

OHFA Your Choice DPA

2.5% or 5% of purchase price as DPA

Up to 5% of priceforgivable

OHFA Grants for Grads

Extra DPA for recent college graduates

Up to 5% of price + $2,500forgivable

5 Steps to Buy Your First Home in Ohio

To buy your first home in Ohio, 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 Ohio, you may need as little as $7,525 for an FHA down payment.

Get Pre-Approved

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

Apply for Ohio DPA Programs

Ohio has 2+ DPA programs. The OHFA Your Choice DPA offers up to 5% of price. Apply early—funding can be limited.

House Hunt & Make an Offer

Popular cities in Ohio: Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Toledo, Akron. Median price is $215,000 (+7.0% YoY). Work with a local real estate agent who knows the market.

Close on Your New Home

Closing costs in Ohio typically run 2-5% of the purchase price ($6,450-$10,750). Some DPA programs also cover closing costs.

Start Your Ohio Home Buying Journey

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

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Ohio First-Time Buyer FAQ

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

Ohio offers 2 major programs: OHFA Your Choice DPA, OHFA Grants for Grads. These provide grants, forgivable loans, and below-market rates for down payment and closing cost assistance.