What down payment assistance does Ohio offer?
| Program | Amount | Type | Min. credit | First-time only? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Dream Downpayment Initiative (ADDI) | Up to 6% of the purchase price with a maximum of $14,999 | Forgivable loan | Not stated | Yes |
| American Dream Downpayment Initiative (ADDI) | Up to $14,999 | Deferred-payment loan | Not stated | Yes |
| Cuyahoga County Down Payment Assistance Program | Up to 10% of purchase price or up to $20,900 | Deferred-payment loan | Not stated | See program |
| Home at Last | Up to $12,500; up to $20,000 in target neighborhoods | Grant (no repayment) | Not stated | Yes |
| OHFA Down Payment Assistance | 3% (conventional) or 3.5% (FHA, VA, USDA) of the purchase price | Forgivable loan | 640 | See program |
How do I apply for Ohio down payment assistance?
- Find a participating lender approved by City of Columbus Department of Development - Housing Division.
- Get pre-approved for the agency's first mortgage and confirm you meet income and price limits.
- Complete the required homebuyer education course.
- Your lender reserves the assistance when you go under contract.
Cities in Ohio
Other states with verified programs
Frequently asked questions
Sources
- City of Columbus Department of Development - Housing Division — American Dream Downpayment Initiative (ADDI) (verified October 25, 2026)
- City of Cincinnati Department of Opportunity and Resident Services — American Dream Downpayment Initiative (ADDI) (verified October 25, 2026)
- Cuyahoga County (administered by Believe Mortgage / CHN Housing Partners) — Cuyahoga County Down Payment Assistance Program (verified October 25, 2026)
- City of Toledo Department of Neighborhood and Business Development — Home at Last (verified October 25, 2026)
- Ohio Housing Finance Agency — OHFA Down Payment Assistance (verified October 23, 2026)
Data last updated October 25, 2026.
Find a lender for Ohio assistance
Answer a few quick questions and get matched with purchase mortgage lenders in your area. Free, and it won't affect your credit score.
Get My MatchesFigures on this page are estimates for educational purposes only and are not a loan offer or commitment to lend. Rates, loan limits, fees and assistance programs change frequently and vary by lender, location and borrower profile. Confirm current terms with a licensed loan officer.