Fannie / Freddie count DIY labor toward down payment on qualifying homes.
Fannie Mae HomeReady and Habitat for Humanity permit documented sweat equity (buyer's own labor: painting, flooring, landscaping) to count toward the down payment on qualifying purchases. Requires appraiser-verified value of work, receipts, and lender approval upfront. Common at 2–5% of purchase price contribution.
Click Generate advisory deep dive for mechanics, IRC citations, a step-by-step execution plan, a worked numeric example on your profile, costs, risks, and this-week actions.
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.