North Dakota homebuyers can access up to $7,350 in down payment assistance through the North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA). On the state's $268,100 median home price, that covers roughly 14% of a standard 20% down payment.
Primary Program: DCA (Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance)
maximum assistance
Forgiven after 3 years if you remain in the home as your primary residence.
- Administering Agency
- North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA)
- Purchase Price Cap
- $481,176
- Forgiveness Term
- 3 years
How Down Payment Assistance Works
Most state DPA programs are layered on top of a first mortgage — you apply through an approved lender who originates both the primary loan and the DPA second lien at the same closing. The DPA funds reduce the cash you need upfront.
Grants
Free money — no repayment ever. Typically the smallest amounts but highest value.
Forgivable Loans
Balance forgiven after a set period (usually 3–15 years) if you stay in the home. Selling early triggers repayment.
Deferred Loans
No monthly payments. Balance due when you sell, refinance, or pay off your mortgage.
Down Payment Calculator
Down Payment Planner
North Dakota median pre-loaded
Your Savings Plan
Timeline
9.0 yrs
saving $500/mo
No PMI at 20% down
20% or more avoids private mortgage insurance entirely.
Estimate only — does not include investment returns on savings.
Full Calculator →Frequently Asked Questions
What down payment assistance is available in North Dakota?
North Dakota's primary DPA program is the DCA (Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance), administered by the North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA). It provides up to $7,350 as a forgivable loan. Forgiven after 3 years if you remain in the home as your primary residence.
How much down payment do I need in North Dakota after using DPA?
On a $268,100 home (North Dakota median), a 20% down payment is $53,620. With the DCA (Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance) covering $7,350, your remaining gap would be $46,270. Many buyers combine DPA with a 3–5% conventional or FHA loan to reduce their cash needed further.
Do I have to repay North Dakota down payment assistance?
Forgiven after 3 years if you remain in the home as your primary residence.
Can I combine North Dakota DPA with other assistance programs?
Yes — North Dakota's DPA programs can generally be combined ("stacked") with local city and county assistance programs, employer homebuyer benefits, and federal programs. Check with an approved lender or HUD-approved counselor to identify all programs you qualify for.
What are the income limits for North Dakota down payment assistance?
The DCA (Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance) uses a dollar-based income limit rather than a percentage of AMI. Check the North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA) website for current limits in your area.
Related Calculators
Home Affordability Calculator
See how much home you can afford in North Dakota
PMI Calculator
Estimate private mortgage insurance on lower down payments
North Dakota First-Time Buyer Programs
State mortgage programs with low rates and low down payments
Mortgage Payments by Price
See full PITI costs for 8 home prices in North Dakota, from $200K to $750K