Down payment assistance in Missouri
Missouri's primary statewide down payment assistance program, run by Missouri Housing Development Commission. Numbers and eligibility reflect the program's published 2025 guidelines.
First Place Cash Assistance Loan
Forgivable second- Maximum assistance
- Up to 4% of loan amount as a forgivable second
- Income limit
- Up to $134,560 (varies by county and family size)
- Home price limit
- Up to $481,176
- First-time buyer
- Required
- Eligible loan types
- FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional
- •Forgiven if you stay in the home for 10 years.
- •Next Step program available for repeat buyers.
How Missouri DPA fits into your purchase
Down payment assistance reduces the cash you need at the closing table. Missouri's First Place Cash Assistance Loan pairs with the standard FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional first mortgage from a participating lender; the DPA flows through the same closing.
Two things to budget for: most state DPA requires a homebuyer-education course (typically online, 6-8 hours, ~$75) and you usually have to use a lender on the agency's approved list. The agency keeps the list public on its website.
Common questions
Missouri's primary statewide DPA is First Place Cash Assistance Loan from Missouri Housing Development Commission. Up to 4% of loan amount as a forgivable second. Many Missouri cities and counties also run additional DPA layered on top.
Yes. The First Place Cash Assistance Loan requires that you have not owned a primary residence in the past 3 years. Veterans and target-area buyers are sometimes exempt.
Yes. First Place Cash Assistance Loan works with these loan types: FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional. The DPA is layered behind your first mortgage as a separate lien (or grant), and both close together.
Usually no. Deferred and forgivable loans typically have no monthly payment, so most lenders do not include them in your DTI calculation.
If you sell or refinance before the forgiveness period ends, you typically have to repay the unforgiven portion.