Home Possible (3% Down)

Buying a home is one of life’s biggest financial commitments, but for many, saving up for a large down payment can be a challenge. That’s where the Home Possible mortgage program comes in. Backed by Freddie Mac, this mortgage program comes with a down payment as low as 3%, flexible income guidelines, and competitive terms. Given these perks, more people can achieve the dream of homeownership, especially first-time home buyers and those with minimal savings.

This guide will break down how Home Possible works, who qualifies, perks and drawbacks, and how it compares to other low-down-payment options.

Hero image

Our Reputation Speaks For Itself

Plus Many More, 400+ More...

Home Possible Loan_img3

What Is Home Possible?

Home Possible is a conventional loan program offered through Freddie Mac that allows eligible borrowers to buy a home with as little as 3% down. It’s specifically designed for low- to moderate-income borrowers, offering more flexibility than other traditional mortgages.

Unlike FHA loans, which require mortgage insurance for the life of the loan, Home Possible loans allow borrowers to cancel their mortgage insurance once they reach 20% equity. This can translate to thousands of dollars saved over time.

Find the Best Mortgage Deals for You

Make your dream home a reality with the right mortgage.

View Rates
TermConforming 30 year fixed
Rate6.000%
APR6.227%

98004 | $800,000 | Credit Score 800+ | 25 Down

TermConforming 15 year fixed
Rate5.125%
APR5.493%

98004 | $800,000 | Credit Score 800+ | 25 Down

View Rates

Key Features of Home Possible Loans

Down Payment Amount

Minimum 3%

Down Payment Sources

– Gifts 

– Grants 

– Employer assistance

– Secondary financing 

– Sweat equity

Income Limits

Maximum 80% of Area Median Income (AMI)

Occupancy

Owner-occupied only

Mortgage Insurance

Required if down payment is less than 20%, but can be canceled later

Credit Score

620+

Homeownership Education

Required for first-time buyers

Property Types

– Single-family homes

– Condominiums

– Co-ops

– Manufactured homes (with additional requirements)

Is Home Possible Right for You?

Home Possible may be ideal for some types of borrowers, but not all.

 

May be Suitable For …

  • Those with limited savings
  • Those with income below 80% of AMI
  • Those looking to avoid long-term mortgage insurance (PMI)

 

May Not be Suitable For …

  • High-income borrowers (exceeding 80% AMI)
  • Investors
  • Those looking to buy a second home for part-time rental

 

Fannie Mae

Homeownership Education For First-Time Buyers

If you’re a first-time home buyer, you’ll need to complete a homeownership education course. One option is Freddie Mac’s CreditSmart® Homebuyer U, a free online option that meets the requirement and helps you understand the responsibilities of owning a home.

How Does the Home Possible Compare to Other Low Down Payment Options?

Other low- or no down payment loan programs are available. Here’s how they compare to Home Possible loans:

Home Possible

Home Ready

FHA Loans

VA Loans

Down Payment

3%

3%

3.5%

0%

Mortgage Insurance

– Yes

– May be canceled

– Yes

– May be canceled

– Yes

– Cannot be canceled

None

Income Limits

Up to 80% AMI

Up to 80% AMI

None

Must be an eligible veteran

Home Possible Loan_img2

Flexibility in Down Payments

One of the biggest perks of Home Possible loans, especially for those with limited savings, is its low down payment requirements and flexible funding sources.

As noted, down payments can be as low as 3% of the purchase price, offering home buyers a chance to enter the housing market sooner without the need for significant savings. But what’s even more appealing is that down payment funds can come from a variety of sources without having to come up with the money on your own:

  • Gifts: Monetary gifts from family may be accepted.
  • Grants: Grants from nonprofits or government programs can be used as a down payment source.
  • Employer assistance: Many companies offer assistance programs that are tied to employment duration.
  • Secondary financing: Other financing may be allowed, as long as it meets Freddie Mac’s guidelines.
  • Sweat equity: This refers to the value of work you contribute to the home through update, renovations, or repairs.
Get Started
Home Possible Loan_img1

Flexible Mortgage Insurance Requirements

Down payments less than 20% of the purchase price typically require private mortgage insurance (PMI). However, Home Possible allows for reduced down payment requirements, which can lower your monthly costs.

What’s even better, you can cancel PMI once your mortgage balance dips below 80% of the home’s appraised value. This is in contrast to FHA loans, which require mortgage insurance for the duration of the loan term.

Get Started

Pros and Cons of Home Possible

Home Possible loans offer a few benefits that many home buyers may find attractive. But there are a handful of potential drawbacks that should also be considered:

Pros:

  • Low Down Payment: Only 3% down is required, making this option ideal for buyers with limited funds upfront.
  • Reduce Mortgage Insurance: Long-term FHA mortgage insurance can be avoided, and PMI can be canceled once 20% equity is reached.
  • Flexible Down Payment Sources: Borrowers can access funds for a down payment from a variety of sources without having to come up with the money on their own.
  • Combines with Assistance Programs: Home Possible is compatible with local down payment assistance and grant programs.
  • Available to Repeat Buyers: While the program is ideal for first-time home buyers, it’s also available to repeat buyers who meet eligibility criteria.

Cons:

  • Income Limits: Borrower income must not exceed 80% of the area median income, which can be a significant limitation for higher earners.
  • Education Course Required: First-time home buyers must complete a homeownership course, which adds another step to the process.
  • Primary Residence Only: The property must be owner-occupied; second homes and investment properties do not qualify.
  • Lender Availability: Many lenders offer Home Possible, but it’s not available from every mortgage provider. You may need to shop around to find a mortgage lender that originates these loans and understands the program.

FAQs

Can I refinance at some point?

Yes, Home Possible supports refinances, allowing homeowners to refinance their existing mortgage into one with more favorable terms or lower rates. This can help reduce monthly payments or interest costs over time.

Do I have to be a first-time home buyer?

No, Home Possible loans are available to both first-time and repeat buyers, as long as income and other requirements are met.

Can I use secondary financing for the down payment?

Yes, certain programs may be used to help cover upfront costs, like home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) and Affordable Seconds programs, These can be paired with a first mortgage to help finance part of the down payment and closing costs.

Where are Home Possible loans available?

Home Possible loans are available nationwide, but income limits vary by ZIP code.

Why is homeownership education required?

Homeownership education is required to ensure first-time home buyers fully understand the responsibilities of owning a home and have the financial profile to support these costs.

What types of properties can qualify?

Under a Home Possible loan, you can buy single-family homes, townhomes, condos, co-ops, and manufactured homes (with restrictions).

Can I use gift money for the down payment?

Yes, monetary gifts may be used to cover the down payment Other sources may include grants, employer assistance, and secondary financing.

Is mortgage insurance required for Home Possible loans?

Yes, mortgage insurance is required if you put down less than 20%. However, you can cancel PMI once you reach 20% equity.

Should I get pre-approved for a Home Possible loan?

Yes, getting pre-approved for a Home Possible loan helps you confirm eligibility, lock in rates, and strengthen your offer.

States we lend in

Our loan officers are ready and waiting to help you apply for your home loan.

lightbulb

Final Thoughts

The Home Possible mortgage program is useful for home buyers who are looking for a low down payment option and flexible funding. With only 3% down and reduced mortgage insurance, this loan program can make the path to homeownership more accessible for those who might otherwise be left out.

Need Financing?

If you’re looking to buy a home as a self-employed individual in the Pacific Northwest region, we can help. At Sammamish Mortgage, we offer various mortgage programs for those without traditional employment documentation in WA, OR, ID, CO, and CA. Visit our website to get an instant rate quote or call us today to have your mortgage questions answered!

Get Started
Need financing icon Need financing image

Connect with a Mortgage Advisor Today!

Whether you’re buying a home or ready to refinance, our professionals can help.

Compare Mortgage Rates in Your Area Instantly

No Obligation and transparency 24/7. Instantly compare live rates and costs from our network of lenders across the country. Real-time accurate rates and closing costs for a variety of loan programs custom to your specific situation.

Subscribe to our newsletter