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First-Time Home Buyer Programs

First-Time Home Buyer in Bergen County, NJ

Get up to $15,000 in down payment assistance. Buy with as little as 3.5% down (FHA) or 0% down (VA/USDA). We guide Bergen County first-time buyers through every step.

NMLS 1577754 • Licensed in NJ, NY, PA, CT, MD, OH, GA

Why Buy in Bergen County as a First-Time Buyer?

Up to $15,000 Assistance

NJHMFA provides up to $15,000 in forgivable down payment assistance. Forgiven after 5 years of occupancy. No monthly payments required.

Low Down Payment Options

FHA: 3.5% down • Conventional: 3% down • VA: 0% down • USDA: 0% down for eligible rural areas in Bergen County.

Strong Market Appreciation

Bergen County median home price: $749,714 (up 16.2% YoY). Top-rated schools, NYC access, stable property values.

NJ Down Payment Assistance Programs

Help with your down payment and closing costs

NJHMFA Down Payment Assistance

Up to $15,000 forgivable loan for down payment and/or closing costs. Forgiven after 5 years of continuous occupancy. No interest, no monthly payments.

Requirements: Primary residence only • Must meet income limits • Combined with NJHMFA first-time buyer mortgage

First Generation Down Payment Assistance

Additional $7,000 for buyers whose parents/guardians don't own residential property, or who were in NJ foster care.

Qualifications: First-generation homeowner OR former NJ foster youth • Can combine with $15K NJHMFA assistance

FHA 3.5% Down Payment

Federal Housing Administration loans allow just 3.5% down with credit scores as low as 580. Gift funds from family allowed.

Benefits: Lower credit score requirements • Gift funds accepted • Seller can pay up to 6% closing costs

VA Loans (0% Down for Veterans)

Veterans, active duty military, and eligible spouses can buy with $0 down. No PMI required. Competitive interest rates.

VA Benefits: No down payment • No PMI • Lower rates • Seller can pay all closing costs

Bergen County Home Buying Reality

Market Snapshot

Median Home Price$749,714
Year-Over-Year Change+16.2%
Avg. Property Tax$12,007/yr
Days on Market57 days

Down Payment Examples

FHA 3.5% on $400K$14,000
Conventional 3% on $500K$15,000
VA 0% down on $600K$0
With $15K NJHMFA assistSave $15K

First-Time Buyer Requirements in NJ

What you need to qualify for first-time buyer programs

✅ You Qualify If:

  • No home ownership in past 3 years
  • Primary residence in New Jersey
  • Meet income limits (varies by county/household size)
  • Complete homebuyer education course
  • Credit score 580+ (FHA) or 620+ (Conventional)

📋 Required Documents:

  • 2 years tax returns and W-2s
  • 2 months bank statements (all accounts)
  • Recent pay stubs (30 days)
  • Photo ID and Social Security card
  • Pre-approval letter (we provide this)

Ready to Buy Your First Home in Bergen County?

Get pre-approved in 24 hours. We'll help you access all available down payment assistance programs and find the best loan for your situation.

Jimmy Joseph MBA • NMLS 1577754jjoseph@cmghomeloans.com