Discover How Down Payment Assistance Can Put You in a Stronger Position to Buy Your Dream Home
If you’re thinking about buying a home but worried about the down payment, you’re not alone. For many buyers, especially first-time buyers, that’s the biggest hurdle between them and homeownership.
The good news? You may not need to come up with the full down payment on your own. Down Payment Assistance (DPA) programs are available in many parts of Ohio and can make a major difference in how quickly and confidently you’re able to buy.
Before you start scrolling through listings or scheduling showings, it’s worth taking a few minutes to find out what you qualify for. Because when you go into the process already approved and supported by a DPA program, you put yourself in the best possible position to secure the home you really want.
What Is Down Payment Assistance?
Down Payment Assistance is funding—typically offered by state or local agencies, nonprofits, or lenders—that helps cover part or all of your required down payment. In some cases, it can even go toward closing costs.
These programs come in several forms:
- Grants that don’t need to be repaid
- Forgivable loans that disappear after a set number of years in the home
- Deferred loans that only require repayment when you sell or refinance
- Low-interest second loans with affordable repayment plans
Each program has its own eligibility criteria, usually based on income, location, or being a first-time buyer.
Why It’s Worth Looking Into Before You Start Shopping
A lot of buyers start looking at homes online or touring properties before knowing what they can actually afford. But in a competitive market like Westerville or anywhere in Central Ohio, going in without a clear financial game plan can hold you back.
Here’s why checking your DPA eligibility early gives you a real advantage:
1. You Could Qualify for More Than You Think
Many people assume these programs are only for very low-income buyers, but that’s often not the case. Some DPA programs are designed for middle-income earners, essential workers, or even those buying in specific communities. You may qualify based on your profession, location, or being a first-time buyer—even if you make a decent income.
2. It Can Increase Your Buying Power
If a DPA program covers part of your down payment or closing costs, you might be able to afford a better home or keep more cash in savings. That extra flexibility can be the difference between settling and getting the home you truly love.
3. It Makes Your Offer More Competitive
When you’re pre-approved and already backed by down payment assistance, sellers take you more seriously. It shows you’ve done your homework, you’re financially ready, and you’re more likely to close without hiccups.
4. It Reduces Stress During the Process
Let’s face it—buying a home can be overwhelming. Having your down payment and financing lined up before you start seriously shopping makes everything smoother, faster, and less stressful.
Who Should Look Into DPA?
If any of these apply to you, it’s worth checking your options:
- You’re a first-time homebuyer
- You’re buying in Ohio and want to keep more cash on hand
- You work in education, healthcare, public service, or the military
- You have stable income but not a lot of savings
- You want to get pre-approved and be ready to act fast when the right home comes along
How Rob Slayton Can Help
As a Certified Mortgage Advisor based right here in Ohio, I work with a wide range of Down Payment Assistance programs. I’ll help you find out what you qualify for, explain how it works, and show you how to combine DPA with the right loan—whether that’s FHA, Conventional, or even a specialty program like Hero Loans or HomeSelect.
You don’t need to navigate all the rules and paperwork on your own. I’ll walk you through everything step by step, so you feel confident and clear from day one.
Let’s See What You Qualify For
Before you start home shopping, let’s run the numbers together and explore your DPA options. You might be surprised how much assistance is available—and how much closer it puts you to owning the home you’ve been dreaming about.
👉 Check your best mortgage options
👉 Start your online application
👉 Schedule a time to chat and get personal guidance
Don’t wait until you’ve found the perfect home to get your financing in order. Let’s get you pre-approved, explore your DPA options, and set you up for success—before the house hunt begins.
Rob Slayton
Producing Branch Manager | Certified Mortgage Advisor
NMLS 248990
