Cincinnati / Ohio · Grant

Communities First Ohio

3-5% grant — free money, zero repayment

3-5% of purchase price as a TRUE GRANT — no repayment ever. Through Port of Greater Cincinnati.

OHFA's Communities First DPA provides enhanced assistance in designated target areas. Buying in these areas earns additional DPA, rewarding buyers who invest in communities prioritized for development.

Amount3-5% grant — free money, zero repayment

TypeGrant

Available inOhio

First-time buyer requiredYes

Minimum credit score640

Multi-unit eligibleYes — 1-4 units

House-hack eligible

This program can be used on 1-4 unit properties. Live in one unit, rent the others.

Programs that pair with this

FHA Loan Saves ~$33,000 on a $200K home vs 20% down

Federal · Subsidized loan

VA Loan $0 down + no monthly mortgage insurance

Federal · Federal benefit

NACA Program $0 down + $0 closing + $0 PMI + below-market rate

National · Nonprofit program

OHFA Down Payment Assistance 3-3.5% of price, forgiven after 7 years

Ohio · Forgivable loan

OHFA YourChoice! Up to 5% of price — forgiven after 7 years

Ohio · Forgivable loan

OHFA Ohio Heroes Discounted rate + stackable with 2.5-5% DPA

Ohio · Rate discount

All Ohio programs →

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We'll show you how to combine Communities First Ohio with other programs to maximize your free money — personalized to your ZIP code and income.

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