When you’re buying your first home in Virginia, a U.S. state with targeted programs to help new homeowners enter the market. Also known as Virginia first-time homebuyer programs, these initiatives are designed to reduce upfront costs and make homeownership realistic—even on a modest income. Many people assume you need 20% down to buy a house, but that’s not true in Virginia. Programs like the VA loan, a mortgage benefit for veterans, service members, and eligible spouses with no down payment required and FHA loan, a government-backed loan that allows down payments as low as 3.5% open doors most first-time buyers didn’t know existed.
Virginia doesn’t just rely on federal loans. The state offers its own help through local housing authorities and nonprofit partners. You might qualify for down payment assistance grants that don’t need to be paid back, or low-interest second mortgages that cover closing costs. These aren’t theoretical options—they’re used every day by teachers, nurses, and young families across Richmond, Norfolk, and Northern Virginia. Credit scores matter, but they’re not the only factor. If your score is in the 620–660 range, you’re still in the game. What really counts is stable income, manageable debt, and knowing which programs you’re eligible for.
There’s a big difference between what you think you need and what you actually need. You don’t need to save $50,000 for a $250,000 home. You don’t need perfect credit. You don’t need to wait years. You just need to understand the system. That’s where this collection comes in. Below, you’ll find real, practical guides on Virginia’s down payment requirements, how to boost your credit score fast, what documents lenders actually check, and how to avoid common mistakes that delay closing. Whether you’re eyeing a townhouse in Arlington or a starter home in Roanoke, the tools and tips here are built for people like you—people who want to own a home but aren’t sure where to start.
Learn the exact steps, income limits, credit score thresholds, and documentation needed to qualify for Virginia's first‑time homebuyer programs.