Proudly serving Ohio & Tennessee
What Is Down Payment Assistance?
Down payment assistance (DPA) programs help homebuyers cover the upfront costs of purchasing a home. These programs are designed to make homeownership more accessible, especially for first-time buyers.
DPA can come in several forms: grants that don't need to be repaid, forgivable loans that are forgiven after a certain period, or deferred loans repaid when you sell or refinance.
At Kimble Smith Mortgage, we specialize in connecting Ohio and Tennessee buyers with the right DPA programs for their situation.
Who Typically Qualifies?
- First-time homebuyers (or haven't owned in 3+ years)
- Income within program limits (varies by area)
- Minimum credit score (often 620-640)
- Home must be primary residence
- Complete homebuyer education course
Types of DPA Programs
Different programs offer different structures — we'll help you find the best fit
Grants
Free money — no repayment required. The best option when available.
Forgivable Loans
Forgiven after 5-10 years if you stay in the home. Second best option.
Deferred Loans
No payments until you sell, refinance, or pay off your mortgage.
Matched Savings
Your savings matched dollar-for-dollar up to program limits.
Ohio Down Payment Assistance
Ohio offers excellent DPA programs through the Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) and local municipalities. We serve buyers throughout Northeast Ohio and beyond.
OHFA Programs We Work With:
- OHFA Grants for Grads — up to 5% for recent graduates
- OHFA Ohio Heroes — for teachers, veterans, first responders
- Your Choice! Down Payment Assistance — 2.5% or 5%
- Community partner programs in select areas
Ohio Cities We Serve:
Tennessee Down Payment Assistance
Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) offers competitive DPA programs. We specialize in Memphis-area assistance programs.
THDA Great Choice Programs:
- Great Choice Plus — up to $7,500 in assistance
- Homeownership for the Brave — for military/veterans
- Great Choice with 0% deferred second mortgage
- Down payment assistance for all 95 Tennessee counties
Memphis Special DPA Focus
We specialize in helping buyers in Memphis neighborhoods access down payment assistance and FHA 203(k) renovation loans.
Free Money for Your Home
Find DPA Programs You May Already Qualify For
Many buyers leave thousands of dollars on the table simply because they didn't know grants and forgivable loans were available to them. Kimble will identify every program you qualify for in Ohio and Tennessee and stack them to minimize your out-of-pocket costs.
Find Down Payment Assistance Programs Near You
You may qualify for grants or forgivable loans — let's find out.
Do You Qualify for DPA?
Every buyer's situation is different. Let's review your options together and find the right program for you.
First-Time Buyer?
Many programs are designed specifically for first-time buyers
Income Limits
Programs have income caps — often higher than you might expect
Property Type
Must be your primary residence in an eligible area
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