Sara Kelly, Realtor

Saving up for a down payment on a house can feel like pushing a boulder up a hill. How do you set aside cash when bills take priority? Maybe you’ve heard of incentive programs for first-time homebuyers. They sound too good to be true. But are they? Like most states, Ohio and Kentucky offer a range of programs for first-time homebuyers, including down payment assistance, tax credits and favorable loan terms. These programs can make a big difference for buyers who feel like they’re just scraping by. Qualification usually depends on factors like income limits, credit score requirements and completing a homebuyer education course. There are also special options for military families, such as VA loans with no money down. If you’re exploring your options, local housing authorities and approved lenders are the best places to start. You can also talk to a licensed Realtor who knows these programs and can help you get the ball rolling. Have you looked into first-time homebuyer programs in your area yet? What’s stopping you from moving forward with them?