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

You can buy a home in Pennsylvania with as little as 0% down (VA/USDA), 3% down ($7,950 conventional), or 3.5% down ($9,275 FHA) on the median-priced home of $265,000.

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

To afford the median-priced home in Pennsylvania ($265,000) with a 30-year mortgage at 6.15%, you typically need a household income of approximately $65,357 per year (using the 28% rule). The median income in Pennsylvania is $65,706.

What is the FHA loan limit in Pennsylvania for 2026?

The FHA loan limit in Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania 2026

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

Pennsylvania offers 2 major first-time buyer programs including PHFA Keystone Home Loan, PHFA K-FIT. 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 Pennsylvania. 2+ down payment assistance programs, FHA loans from 5.95%, and step-by-step guidance.

Median Price

$265,000

Min Down (FHA)

$9,275

DPA Programs

Best Rate

5.95%

Check My Pennsylvania Eligibility

What First-Time Buyer Programs Are Available in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania offers 2 major first-time home buyer assistance programs. These include PHFA Keystone Home Loan, PHFA K-FIT. Programs provide up to Rate reduction in down payment assistance through grants, forgivable loans, and below-market interest rates.

How Much Do I Need to Buy in Pennsylvania?

You can buy a home in Pennsylvania with as little as $0 down. VA and USDA loans require zero down payment. FHA loans need just 3.5% ($$9,275), and conventional loans start at 3% ($$7,950) on the median price of $265,000.

Loan Type	Down Payment	$ Amount	Monthly P&I	Min Credit
VA Loan	0%	$0	$1,572	620
USDA Loan	0%	$0	$1,614	640
Conventional 3%	3%	$7,950	$1,566	620
FHA Loan	3.5%	$9,275	$1,525	580
Conventional 20%	20%	$53,000	$1,292	620

Pennsylvania Down Payment Assistance Programs

PHFA Keystone Home Loan

Below-market rate mortgage

Up to Rate reductionlow interest

PHFA K-FIT

Forgivable DPA up to 5%

Up to 5% of loanforgivable

5 Steps to Buy Your First Home in Pennsylvania

To buy your first home in Pennsylvania, 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 Pennsylvania, you may need as little as $9,275 for an FHA down payment.

Get Pre-Approved

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

Apply for Pennsylvania DPA Programs

Pennsylvania has 2+ DPA programs. The PHFA Keystone Home Loan offers up to Rate reduction. Apply early—funding can be limited.

House Hunt & Make an Offer

Popular cities in Pennsylvania: Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, Erie, Reading. Median price is $265,000 (+6.5% YoY). Work with a local real estate agent who knows the market.

Close on Your New Home

Closing costs in Pennsylvania typically run 2-5% of the purchase price ($7,950-$13,250). Some DPA programs also cover closing costs.

Start Your Pennsylvania Home Buying Journey

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

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Pennsylvania First-Time Buyer FAQ

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

Pennsylvania offers 2 major programs: PHFA Keystone Home Loan, PHFA K-FIT. These provide grants, forgivable loans, and below-market rates for down payment and closing cost assistance.