USDA Direct — not Guaranteed — offers 0% down at rates as low as 1% for very-low-income rural buyers.
USDA §502 Direct Loan (distinct from the more common §502 Guaranteed) is issued directly by USDA to very-low and low-income buyers in eligible rural areas. Rates can be subsidized as low as 1% based on income, with 33–38 year terms and 0% down. Payment subsidy is recaptured on sale but only from appreciation gain. Serviced by USDA Rural Development state offices, not banks. Eligible areas include many suburbs and small towns most people wouldn't think are 'rural'.
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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.