Federal · Subsidized loan

Fannie Mae HomeReady

3% down + reduced PMI rates

3% down with reduced mortgage insurance for low-to-moderate income buyers.

Fannie Mae HomeReady is built for buyers earning at or below 80% of their area's median income, though in low-income census tracts there are no income limits at all. The program requires just 3% down — and that entire amount can come from gifts, grants, or employer assistance.

What separates HomeReady from a standard conventional loan is the mortgage insurance savings. PMI rates are significantly lower, which can save $100-200 per month compared to standard conventional pricing at the same LTV. The program also allows boarder income (from a roommate) and accessory dwelling unit rental income to help you qualify — features no other conventional product offers.

HomeReady works on 1-4 unit properties. Buy a duplex, live in one side, rent the other, and use both the rental income and your reduced PMI to build a cash-flowing investment from day one.

Amount3% down + reduced PMI rates
TypeSubsidized loan
Available inAll 50 states
First-time buyer requiredNo
Minimum credit score620
Multi-unit eligibleYes — 1-4 units

House-hack eligible

2-4 units eligible. Rental income helps you qualify.

Programs that pair with this

Florida Hometown Heroes $35,000
Florida · Deferred 0% loan
TDHCA My First Texas Home Up to 5% of loan amount
Texas · DPA + below-market rate
California Dream For All $150,000
California · Shared appreciation
SONYMA DPAL $15,000
New York State · Forgivable loan
PHFA K-FIT (Forgivable in Ten Years) 5% of price — no cap. $20K on a $400K home, fully forgiven
Pennsylvania · Forgivable loan
FHA Loan Saves ~$33,000 on a $200K home vs 20% down
Federal · Subsidized loan

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