Ohio homebuyers can access up to $11,000 in down payment assistance through the Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA). On the state's $225,614 median home price, that covers roughly 24% of a standard 20% down payment.
Primary Program: Ohio Heroes / Your Choice! DPA
maximum assistance
Forgiven after 7 years if you remain in the home as your primary residence.
- Administering Agency
- Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA)
- Income Limit
- 80% of Area Median Income
- Purchase Price Cap
- $481,176
- Forgiveness Term
- 7 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
Ohio median pre-loaded
Your Savings Plan
Timeline
7.6 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 Ohio?
Ohio's primary DPA program is the Ohio Heroes / Your Choice! DPA, administered by the Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA). It provides up to $11,000 as a forgivable loan. Forgiven after 7 years if you remain in the home as your primary residence.
How much down payment do I need in Ohio after using DPA?
On a $225,614 home (Ohio median), a 20% down payment is $45,123. With the Ohio Heroes / Your Choice! DPA covering $11,000, your remaining gap would be $34,123. Many buyers combine DPA with a 3–5% conventional or FHA loan to reduce their cash needed further.
Do I have to repay Ohio down payment assistance?
Forgiven after 7 years if you remain in the home as your primary residence.
Can I combine Ohio DPA with other assistance programs?
Yes — Ohio'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 Ohio down payment assistance?
The Ohio Heroes / Your Choice! DPA requires income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for your county. AMI limits vary by location and household size. Your lender or the Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) can confirm the exact limit for your area.
Related Calculators
Home Affordability Calculator
See how much home you can afford in Ohio
PMI Calculator
Estimate private mortgage insurance on lower down payments
Ohio 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 Ohio, from $200K to $750K