The state of Minnesota wants to help pay your down payment.
Minnesota Housing is the state housing finance agency, and its Start Up program is the single most useful tool for most Minnesota first-time buyers: a competitive first mortgage paired with a second loan that covers down payment and closing costs.
Down payment & closing cost loans
Start Up pairs your first mortgage with a Deferred Payment Loan or Monthly Payment Loan for down payment and closing costs — up to program limits that reach five figures.
Deferred means deferred
The Deferred Payment options add $0 to your monthly payment. The loan is simply repaid when you sell, refinance, or pay off the home.
First-generation buyers get more
If your parents never owned a home, enhanced assistance may be available on top of standard limits. Ask us — this one is often missed.
Works with what you have
Start Up sits on top of a conventional, FHA, USDA or VA first mortgage. Income and purchase price limits apply and vary by county — we check them for you in minutes.
Typical eligibility
- First-time buyer (no ownership in the last 3 years, with some exceptions)
- Income within county limits (metro limits are higher than most people assume)
- Purchase price within program limits
- Homebuyer education course (online, a few hours)
- Minimum credit score per program guidelines (generally 640)
Program guidelines change and county limits vary — treat this as orientation, not a rulebook. We verify your actual eligibility for free, usually same-day.
Find out if Minnesota Housing fits you.
Eligibility checks are free, fast, and commitment-free — call, email, or apply through Fairway's secure system.
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