Add an Accessory Dwelling Unit; rental income qualifies buyer for larger primary mortgage and covers half the PITI.
Fannie Mae (as of 2023) and FHA both allow ADU rental income to be counted toward qualifying DTI on a primary residence purchase. Buy a home with existing (or add-permittable) ADU, live in one unit, rent the other. California SB-9/ADU laws, Oregon HB-2001, and many state statewide-by-right rules make ADU permitting near-automatic. FHA 203(k) rehab loan can finance the ADU construction as part of the purchase mortgage.
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Eligible veterans buy with $0 down, no PMI, and assumable rates.
0% down in USDA-eligible areas — includes many suburban zip codes.
Neighborhood Assistance Corp of America — below-market rate, zero down.
Fannie / Freddie low-income programs — 3% down + reduced PMI.
1.25–2.25% down for enrolled tribal members — nationwide.
State / county / employer DPA — $5K–$50K forgivable or 0% deferred 2nd.
$100 total down on FHA-repossessed homes for owner-occupants.
3.5% down + rehab budget rolled into one loan — buy distressed properties.