Can You Buy a Home with Zero Down Payment?

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make—but it doesn’t always require a big upfront cost. One of the most common myths in real estate is that you need a 20% down payment to buy a home. The truth? Yes, you can buy a home with zero down payment, thanks to specific loan programs designed to make homeownership more accessible.

At Mortgage Pipeline, we specialize in helping first-time buyers and qualified borrowers find the best financing options—including those with zero down.

Here’s how it works.

What Is a Zero Down Payment Mortgage?

A zero down payment mortgage allows you to purchase a home without putting any money down upfront. That means instead of saving up thousands—or tens of thousands—you can secure financing for 100% of the home’s purchase price.

Not every buyer qualifies, and not every loan program offers this option. But for those who do, it can be a game-changer.

Top Zero Down Payment Loan Options

1. VA Loans (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs)

If you’re an active-duty service member, veteran, or eligible surviving spouse, a VA loan might be your best option. VA loans require zero down, have no private mortgage insurance (PMI), and often come with competitive interest rates.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Military service requirements must be met

• Certificate of Eligibility (COE) required

• Satisfactory credit and income

2. USDA Loans (U.S. Department of Agriculture)

For buyers in eligible rural and suburban areas, USDA loans offer another zero-down payment solution. These loans are designed to promote homeownership in less densely populated areas.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Property must be in a USDA-eligible area

• Household income must fall within program limits

• Good credit and ability to repay

Low Down Payment Alternatives (If You Don’t Qualify for 0%)

Even if you’re not eligible for a zero-down program, there are low down payment options that still keep your costs manageable:

• FHA Loans: 3.5% down with flexible credit requirements

• Conventional Loans (Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac): 3%–5% down for qualified buyers

• Down Payment Assistance Programs: Offered at the local or state level to help cover upfront costs

Pros of Zero Down Payment Loans

Keep More Cash in Your Pocket Perfect for buyers who want to maintain liquidity for emergencies, moving expenses, or future home upgrades.

Get Into a Home Sooner - No need to wait years to save for a large down payment.

Use Savings Elsewhere - Rather than tying up your cash in equity, you can invest it elsewhere or pay off other debt.

Things to Consider

Higher Monthly Payments - Because you're financing the entire purchase, monthly payments may be higher than with a traditional loan.

More Interest Over Time - With no down payment, you’ll pay interest on a larger loan amount.

Tighter Eligibility Requirements - Zero-down options often require strong credit, stable income, and meeting specific service or geographic criteria.

How Mortgage Pipeline Can Help

At Mortgage Pipeline, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Whether you qualify for a VA loan, USDA financing, or need help finding a low down payment path, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. We’ll help you:

• Determine if you're eligible for zero down

• Explore the best loan options based on your credit and goals

• Calculate monthly payments and long-term affordability

• Understand the pros and cons of your financing choices

Ready to See If You Qualify?

Buying a home with no money down is possible—and it could be the first step toward building long-term wealth through real estate. If you’re ready to explore your options, the experts at Mortgage Pipeline are here to help.

Reach out today and let’s get you into a home—with zero down and zero stress.