Updated 1/23/2026

These programs can only be handled by approved lenders. If you would like help from a local realtor familiar with the programs and lenders, fill out this form here and I will connect you with one.

I've included all of the links and contact info needed to do this on your own, the form is meant to make it easier.

Connect with a DPA team

How Down Payment Assistance Works

I need to give a quick overview of how down payment assistance works. After that, the programs are listed.

With down payment assistance, you'll run into two different types:

  • A grant

  • A loan

A Grant

If we meet the qualifications up front, then it's money that does not need to be repaid.

A Loan

If the down payment assistance comes in the form of a loan, then pay attention to the three different types:

  • Repayable

  • Deferred

  • Forgivable

Repayable is just as most imagine. It charges interest over a certain amount of time, with monthly payments until it's paid off.

Deferred loans usually don't require a monthly payment, and typically don't charge interest. It's due in full when you refinance, sell the home, or when it ceases to be your primary residence.

Forgivable loans will disappear if you meet the criteria, which usually comes down to keeping the home as your primary residence for a specific amount of time.

Okay with that, here are the programs!

Nebraska

Nebraska Investment Finance Authority (NIFA) Homebuyer Assistance Program

  • What It Offers: Provides a second mortgage of up to 5% of the home’s purchase price for down payment and closing costs.

  • Who Qualifies: First-time homebuyers (and repeat buyers in targeted areas) using a NIFA first mortgage.

  • Income Limits: Varies by county and household size (e.g., higher limits for the "Welcome Home" loan product).

  • Repayment: The assistance is a 10-year loan with a fixed interest rate of 1%.

  • Website: https://www.nifa.org/homebuyers-renters/welcome-home

First Home Program

Lincoln NeighborWorks Down Payment Assistance

  • Assistance: Provides a deferred loan of up to $20,000 for down payment and closing costs.

  • Eligibility: First-time homebuyers purchasing within the Lincoln city limits; income must be at or below 80% AMI.

  • Repayment: 0% interest loan with no monthly payments. The loan is due only when the home is sold, transferred, or no longer the primary residence.

  • https://nwlincoln.org/our-work/homeownership/dpa.html

NENEDD Direct Homebuyer Assistance

  • Assistance: Provides a 0% interest deferred loan of up to $30,000 (or 20% of the project cost) for down payment and closing costs.

  • Who Qualifies: Homebuyers purchasing in the Northeast Nebraska Economic Development District (includes counties like Boone, Colfax, Dodge, Madison, Pierce, Platte, Wayne, etc.).

  • Repayment: No monthly payments; the loan is repaid when the home is sold or the title is transferred.

  • Website: https://nenedd.org/direct-homebuyer-assistance/

Western Nebraska High Plains Community Development Corp (HPCDC)

Updated 1/23/2026

These programs can only be handled by approved lenders. If you would like help from a local realtor familiar with the programs and lenders, fill out this form here and I will connect you with one.

I've included all of the links and contact info needed to do this on your own, the form is meant to make it easier.