Buying your first home?
Know your number before you shop.

See how much cash you really need to buy in the Houston area, which loan fits you, and which down payment assistance programs may be worth a look.

Figure out my cash to close See assistance programs

How much cash do you need to buy?

Your down payment is only part of it. This adds up everything a buyer typically pays in the Houston area, from the option fee to the first year of insurance, so there are no surprises at the closing table.

Houston-area rates run about 1.5% to 3.9%. Newer master-planned communities are usually higher. Every listing on HAR.com shows its exact rate.
Total cash you'll need
$0

Before closing

At closing

Your earnest money and option fee are usually credited back toward what you owe at closing, so they're counted once here. Closing costs vary by lender and title company.

Want this breakdown emailed to you?

We'll send your numbers plus the assistance programs worth asking a lender about, and Patrina and Charles will reach out personally.

Which loan fits you?

The loan you pick changes your down payment, your monthly mortgage insurance and your cash to close. Your lender will confirm what you qualify for.

Conventional

As little as 3% down for first-time buyers. Mortgage insurance (PMI) until you reach 20% equity, then it can come off.

FHA

3.5% down with more flexible credit. Upfront and monthly mortgage insurance. 2026 limit in the Houston area: $541,287 for a single-family home.

VA

0% down and no monthly mortgage insurance for veterans and service members. A one-time funding fee, waived if you receive VA disability compensation.

USDA

0% down in eligible rural areas, which can include parts of Dayton, Huffman, Crosby, New Caney and Porter. Income limits apply. Check an address.

Jumbo

For loans above the 2026 conforming limit of $832,750. Usually needs a larger down payment and stronger credit.

Texas Veterans Land Board

Texas veterans can get a state home loan up to $832,750, with a discounted rate for a 30% or higher disability rating. Learn more.

Down payment assistance in Texas and Houston

Most first-time buyers have never heard of these. We don't check credit or approve anyone for these programs. This is a list of programs worth asking about. Rules, income limits and funding change often, and only a lender approved to offer a program can tell you if you qualify. Checked October 2026.

Statewide

Open

My First Texas Home (TDHCA)

2% to 5% of the loan, 0% interest, no monthly payment. For first-time buyers, with the rule waived for veterans and some target areas. Income and price limits apply. Minimum 620 credit score. Works with FHA, VA and USDA.

Official page
Open

My Choice Texas Home (TDHCA)

Same 2% to 5% assistance, with no first-time buyer requirement. Income limits apply and a homebuyer class is required. Minimum 620 credit score.

Program details
Limited supply

Texas Mortgage Credit Certificate

A federal tax credit of 15% of the mortgage interest you pay each year, which can mean real money back every tax season. First-time buyers, with exceptions for veterans.

Official page
Open

Homes for Texas Heroes (TSAHC)

2% to 5% assistance for public school teachers and staff, school nurses, nursing faculty, firefighters, EMS, peace officers, corrections officers, veterans and active military.

Who's eligible
Open

Home Sweet Texas (TSAHC)

The same 2% to 5% assistance for buyers who don't fit the Heroes list, including hospital nurses and other healthcare workers. Income limits apply.

Assistance options
Open

5 Star Texas Advantage (SETH)

Up to 5% of the loan with no first-time buyer requirement. Income limits apply. Minimum 640 credit score.

Program highlights

Local

Paused

Harris County Down Payment Assistance

Up to $40,000 for first-time buyers in unincorporated Harris County. Currently at capacity except for households affected by Hurricane Beryl or the derecho, who have a separate program.

Official page
Paused

City of Houston Homebuyer Assistance

Up to $75,000 for first-time buyers inside Houston city limits. Funds are currently used up. Watch for the next round.

Official page
Check funding

City of Baytown Homebuyer Assistance

Up to 5% of the price for first-time buyers inside Baytown city limits, homes $200,000 or less. First come, first served.

Program info

Program details summarized from official sources in October 2026 and subject to change. Assistance may be a grant or a second loan that's forgiven over time or repaid when you sell or refinance. Only a lender approved to offer each program can confirm eligibility.

Estimates only. This is not a loan offer, a credit check or a guarantee of program eligibility. Typical Houston-area costs used: option fee $300, appraisal $600, inspection $500, termite inspection $100, lender fees about $990 plus origination, escrow fee half $350, recording $150, title premiums from the Texas Department of Insurance 2026 rates. Your lender's Loan Estimate shows your actual costs.