Down payment assistance, grants, forgivable loans, and tax credits available to New Hampshire buyers. Each program below is verified, with eligibility rules, benefit amounts, and a direct link to the official agency.
Last reviewed May 2026·3 programs·6 federal programs
Administered by New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority
Up to $15,000
Down payment and closing cost assistance as a second mortgage at 0% interest with a 30-year term. No required monthly payments. Combined with a Home Flex first mortgage.
Income limit
Income limits vary by county and household size - typically up to 80% AMI
Minimum credit score620
First-time buyer requiredYes
Special requirements: Must complete homebuyer education course. Home must be primary residence.
View official program page
Apply through a participating lender. Complete homebuyer education at NHHFA-approved provider.Verified May 2026
Home Preferred Plus
Administered by New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority
Up to $10,000
Down payment assistance as a 0% interest deferred loan. Combined with competitive first mortgage rate.
Income limit
Income limits up to 80% AMI, varies by county
Minimum credit score620
First-time buyer requiredYes
Special requirements: Must be first-time buyer or not owned home in 3 years. Homebuyer education required.
Do I have to be a first-time homebuyer to qualify?
Most New Hampshire programs require first-time buyer status, but the definition is broader than most people think — the IRS considers you a first-time buyer if you haven't owned a primary residence in the last three years. Each program above lists its specific rules.
What credit score do I need?
Minimum credit scores vary by program. Most New Hampshire programs require 620 to 660, though some lower-tier products accept lower scores with manual underwriting. Check each program's eligibility section above.
How do I actually apply?
Most state programs aren't applied to directly — you go through a participating lender, who handles the program application as part of your mortgage. Each program above links to the official agency page with the current list of approved lenders.
Can I combine multiple programs?
Often yes — many states allow you to stack a state down-payment grant with a federal FHA or VA loan. Some programs explicitly forbid combining; check each program's "special requirements" above.
Do these programs cost anything?
The programs themselves are free to apply for. Some require completing a homebuyer education course (typically $50–$100, sometimes free). Forgivable second mortgages technically don't cost you unless you sell or refinance early — read the terms carefully.
