First-generation home buyer grants
A first-generation home buyer is usually someone whose parents never owned a home. A handful of states set money aside for these buyers, on top of their regular first-time buyer help.
- First-generation buyer programs run by states
- 6 spread across 6 states
- Biggest amount available
- $25,000, Rhode Island
First-generation buyer programs run by states
| Program | State | Amount | Grant or loan |
|---|---|---|---|
| California Dream For All Shared Appreciation Loan. At least one borrower must be a first-generation homebuyer. | California | At most $150,000, covering up to 20% of the price.. A waiting list is the only option. | Deferred loan |
| RIHousing FirstGenHomeRI. Eligibility is limited to first-generation homebuyers who now live in Providence (parts only, not 02906), one Newport census tract, or Central Falls, East Providence, Pawtucket, Woonsocket. | Rhode Island | Up to $25,000 | Forgivable loan |
| New Jersey Smart Start Plus First-Generation Program. Every borrower must sign an affidavit confirming first-generation eligibility, and the program is limited to first-generation homebuyers. | New Jersey | Up to $22,000 | Forgivable loan |
| Vermont First Generation Homebuyer Program. First-generation buyers only: at least one titleholder spent time in foster care, or had parents or guardians who lost a home to foreclosure or never owned one. | Vermont | Up to $15,000 | Grant |
| Maine First Generation Program. You qualify only if you never lived in a home your parents or legal guardians owned, or if you were in foster care as a child. | Maine | Up to $10,000 | Grant |
| New Hampshire 1st Generation Homebuyer (1stGenHomeNH). First-generation homebuyers only. | New Hampshire | Up to $10,000 | Deferred loan |
You'll find the income limit, credit score and application steps on each program's own page. No federal first-generation down payment grant exists to apply for; state housing agencies run these programs. Outside the listed states, first-generation buyers can use help open to any first-time buyer: choose your state or compare every state.
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