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First-Time Buyer loans in Ohio

Quick answer

First-time buyers in Ohio can use FHA (3.5% down), conventional 97 (3% down), VA or USDA loans, plus programs from Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA). On a $199,200 home, 3% down is about $5,976.

By Purchase Mortgage Loan Editorial Team Checked against official sources per our editorial standardsLast updated

First-Time Buyer loan snapshot for Ohio

ItemEstimate
Minimum down payment0%–3.5%
Minimum credit score580–620
Typical OH home value$199,200
3.5% down on typical home$6,972
20% down on typical home$39,840
Avg. effective property tax1.36%/yr (~$226/mo)
Income for typical home (31% rule)$65,000

Rate assumption: 7.18% (Freddie Mac PMMS 30-year fixed average, week of November 5, 2026). Change it in the payment calculator.

Which Ohio programs pair with First-Time Buyer loans?

  • Your Choice! Down Payment Assistance: Forgivable assistance worth a percentage of the purchase price.
  • Ohio Heroes: A reduced rate for veterans, active military, first responders, teachers and healthcare workers.

Details and current limits: Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA).

Compare first-time buyer loan options

LoanMin. downMin. creditMortgage insurance
FHA3.5%5801.75% upfront + annual MIP
Conventional 97 / HomeReady / Home Possible3%620PMI, removable
VA0%Lender-set (~580–620)None (funding fee)
USDA0%~6401% upfront + 0.35% annual

Who counts as a first-time home buyer?

Under HUD and most agency definitions, you're a first-time buyer if you haven't owned a principal residence in the last three years. Single parents and displaced homemakers who only owned with a former spouse may also qualify.

First-Time Buyer loans in Ohio cities

First-Time Buyer in ColumbusFirst-Time Buyer in ClevelandFirst-Time Buyer in CincinnatiFirst-Time Buyer in ToledoFirst-Time Buyer in AkronFirst-Time Buyer in DaytonFirst-Time Buyer in ParmaFirst-Time Buyer in CantonFirst-Time Buyer in LorainFirst-Time Buyer in HamiltonFirst-Time Buyer in YoungstownFirst-Time Buyer in SpringfieldFirst-Time Buyer in KetteringFirst-Time Buyer in ElyriaFirst-Time Buyer in Cuyahoga FallsFirst-Time Buyer in MiddletownFirst-Time Buyer in NewarkFirst-Time Buyer in LakewoodFirst-Time Buyer in DublinFirst-Time Buyer in EuclidFirst-Time Buyer in MansfieldFirst-Time Buyer in MentorFirst-Time Buyer in BeavercreekFirst-Time Buyer in StrongsvilleFirst-Time Buyer in Cleveland HeightsFirst-Time Buyer in FairfieldFirst-Time Buyer in Huber HeightsFirst-Time Buyer in DelawareFirst-Time Buyer in Grove CityFirst-Time Buyer in ReynoldsburgFirst-Time Buyer in LancasterFirst-Time Buyer in FindlayFirst-Time Buyer in WarrenFirst-Time Buyer in WestervilleFirst-Time Buyer in HilliardFirst-Time Buyer in Upper ArlingtonFirst-Time Buyer in North RidgevilleFirst-Time Buyer in MarionFirst-Time Buyer in GahannaFirst-Time Buyer in LimaFirst-Time Buyer in BrunswickFirst-Time Buyer in MasonFirst-Time Buyer in FairbornFirst-Time Buyer in StowFirst-Time Buyer in WestlakeFirst-Time Buyer in MassillonFirst-Time Buyer in North OlmstedFirst-Time Buyer in North RoyaltonFirst-Time Buyer in AustintownFirst-Time Buyer in Bowling GreenFirst-Time Buyer in Garfield HeightsFirst-Time Buyer in Shaker HeightsFirst-Time Buyer in GreenFirst-Time Buyer in KentFirst-Time Buyer in WoosterFirst-Time Buyer in TroyFirst-Time Buyer in MarysvilleFirst-Time Buyer in MedinaFirst-Time Buyer in XeniaFirst-Time Buyer in Avon Lake

Frequently asked questions

Yes. First-Time Buyer loans are available statewide in Ohio through approved lenders, subject to county loan limits where they apply.

Often yes. Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) and local programs frequently pair assistance with FHA, conventional, VA or USDA first mortgages. Eligibility depends on income, price and program rules.

Answer a few questions on Purchase Mortgage Loan and we'll match you with lenders and loan officers in our network who serve Ohio.

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Figures 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.