How does $0 down on a new home work?

VA loans need no down payment for veterans and service members who qualify. USDA loans need none for homes in places the USDA counts as rural, for families under its income limit.

For everyone else, down payment help programs can pay the down payment for you. Many are a second loan you pay back when you sell or refinance, and some are forgiven over time.

The deposit is as low as $1,000. You pay it after you are pre-approved and have found the home you want, and you get it back at closing. When the builder also pays your closing costs, you can move in with very little out of pocket.