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First-Time Home Buyer Programs & Down Payment Help in Texoma

You may need less money than you think. Texas, Oklahoma, tribal nations and federal loan programs all offer ways to buy with little or nothing down.

Working with a local Realtor as a first-time buyer

Quick answer: First-time buyers in Texoma can often buy with 0%–3.5% down using USDA (0% in eligible rural areas), VA (0% for veterans), FHA (3.5%), or conventional loans (as little as 3%). State programs like TDHCA and TSAHC in Texas and OHFA in Oklahoma can add down payment help, and Chickasaw and Choctaw citizens may qualify for tribal assistance. Start with a local lender who knows these programs.

0%
down with USDA or VA
3.5%
down with FHA
up to 5%
TX state assistance
3.5%
OHFA assistance in OK

How do I buy my first home?

1

Check your credit

Many programs start around a 620 score. A lender can tell you what to fix.

2

Get pre-approved

Know your budget and which programs you qualify for. See our local lenders.

3

Take a homebuyer class

Some assistance programs require one — and it's worth it anyway.

4

Shop with an agent

Buyer representation is spelled out in a written agreement. We'll explain it up front.

5

Make an offer & inspect

We negotiate, schedule inspections and keep you on deadline.

6

Close & move in

Sign at the title company, get your keys, and file your homestead exemption.

Which loan is best for a first-time buyer?

Loan Down payment Best for
USDA Rural Development 0% Buyers in eligible rural areas — which covers much of Texoma outside the bigger towns
VA 0% Veterans, active military and eligible spouses
FHA 3.5% Buyers with lower credit scores or smaller savings
Conventional As little as 3% Buyers with good credit; PMI can be removed later
HUD Section 184 Low down payment Enrolled members of federally recognized tribes

What down payment assistance is available?

Texas programs

TDHCA My First Texas Home

Up to 5% assistance as a forgivable second lien for first-time buyers (or anyone who hasn't owned a home in 3 years), with income and price limits.

TDHCA My Choice Texas Home

Up to 5% assistance — no first-time buyer requirement.

TSAHC Homes for Texas Heroes

Up to 5% for teachers, police, firefighters, EMS, corrections officers and veterans — as a grant or forgivable loan.

TSAHC Home Sweet Texas

Up to 5% for buyers who don't fit the Heroes program.

Mortgage Credit Certificate

A federal tax credit on part of your mortgage interest for qualifying first-time buyers.

Oklahoma programs

OHFA Homebuyer Program

3.5% down payment assistance through the Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency, for first-time and repeat buyers in all 77 counties, with income and price limits.

Chickasaw Nation grant

A one-time grant of up to $5,000 toward down payment and/or closing costs for Chickasaw citizens buying a primary home.

Choctaw Nation assistance

A down payment/closing cost second mortgage for Choctaw tribal members, subject to funding.

HUD Section 184

Low-down-payment loans for tribal members, offered through approved lenders.

Programs change — check before you count on it

Amounts, income limits and funding change often, and many programs require an approved lender and a homebuyer class. Talk to a lender before you shop. Links: TDHCA · TSAHC · OHFA · Chickasaw Nation · Choctaw Nation.

How much money do I need to buy a house?

Earnest money

A good-faith deposit when your offer is accepted — credited back at closing.

Option fee (TX)

A small fee in Texas for the right to back out during the option period.

Inspections

General home inspection, plus termite, septic or well if needed.

Appraisal

Ordered by your lender.

Down payment

0% to 5% for most first-time programs.

Closing costs

Lender and title fees, prepaid taxes and insurance. Sellers and programs can often help cover them.

First-time buyers say

★★★★★ 5.0 — verified reviews across RateMyAgent, Google, and Zillow

★★★★★

"Brian & Jonelle were fantastic to work with! They were helpful, kind, and guided us through each step of the home-buying process."

Cody J. Google review · Sherman, TX

★★★★★

"I felt completely at ease, comfortable and secure… All was explained in detail, in layman's terms easy to understand."

Donice L. Denison, TX

★★★★★

"Brian and Jonelle are the best people to help you. I love the way they answer questions and go way beyond to make sure you're a happy customer."

Rhonda L. Google review · Colbert, OK

★★★★★

"This was a unique off-market transaction, and having someone knowledgeable guiding us through it made a huge difference."

Andrew B. Google review · Kingston, OK land

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First-time buyer FAQ

What credit score do I need to buy a house?

Many programs start around 620, and FHA can go lower with a larger down payment. A lender can give you a straight answer.

Who counts as a first-time home buyer?

Usually anyone who hasn't owned a primary home in the last 3 years.

Is USDA available in Texoma?

Yes — much of the area outside the larger towns is USDA-eligible. Check the address on the USDA eligibility map.

Do I have to pay down payment assistance back?

It depends. Some are grants, some are forgivable after a few years, and some are repaid when you sell or refinance.

Can the seller pay my closing costs?

Often, yes, up to limits set by your loan type. We negotiate for it in the offer.

Do I need a Realtor as a first-time buyer?

You're not required to, but an agent helps you avoid costly mistakes. Buyer agency terms are agreed in writing up front.

How long does it take to buy a house?

Usually 30–45 days from accepted offer to closing, after you find the right home.

Financing & Lending Guides

Your first home is closer than you think

Let's map out your budget, your programs, and your first tour.

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Love My Texoma Home Team | INC Realty — Local Roots. Real Results. Program details are summaries as of 2026 and are not a loan commitment. Confirm eligibility with an approved lender.

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