First-Time Homebuyer ProgramsYour Path to Bergen County Homeownership Starts Here
First-time buyer programs help you enter Bergen County's market with low down payments, down payment assistance, and educational resources.
Why Choose First-Time Buyer for Your Bergen County Home?
Low Down Payment Options
As low as 3% down for qualified first-time buyers.
On a $600K Bergen County home, that's only $18,000 down versus $120K for 20% down.
Down Payment Assistance
NJ programs provide grants and loans for down payment and closing costs.
NJHMFA programs offer up to $10,000-$15,000 in down payment assistance for qualified buyers.
Educational Resources
Free homebuyer education and counseling throughout the process.
Learn about budgeting, credit, and home maintenance before and after purchase.
Flexible Credit
Credit scores as low as 580 may qualify with certain programs.
FHA and NJ programs accommodate buyers building credit history.
First-Time Buyer Eligibility in Bergen County
- Must not have owned a home in the past 3 years (in most cases)
- Primary residence requirement (must occupy the home)
- Income limits may apply for certain assistance programs
- Complete homebuyer education course (may be required for DPA)
- Minimum credit score varies by program (580-640 typical)
- Debt-to-income ratio under 43-45%
- Documented employment and income history
First-Time Homebuyer Programs Available in All 70 Bergen County Towns
Serving 955,732 residents across Bergen County. Click any town for local market data and First-Time Buyer loan options.
Don't see your town listed? View all Bergen County towns
Your Path to First-Time Buyer Approval in Bergen County
Education Course
4-8 hoursComplete approved homebuyer education (online or in-person).
Pre-Approval
Same dayGet pre-approved and explore available assistance programs.
Home Shopping
1-60 daysSearch Bergen County with your realtor within your approved budget.
Assistance Application
Day 5-15Apply for down payment assistance grants/loans if eligible.
Closing
Day 30-45Close on your first Bergen County home!
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifies as a first-time homebuyer in Bergen County?
Typically, you must not have owned a primary residence in the past 3 years. Some programs define it as never having owned a home.
What down payment assistance is available in Bergen County?
NJHMFA offers several programs including Down Payment Assistance (up to $10K), NJ HomeKeeper (up to $15K), and municipal programs in select Bergen County towns.
Can I buy a condo as a first-time buyer in Bergen County?
Yes! Many Bergen County condos are FHA-approved and eligible for first-time buyer programs. Popular areas include Paramus, Fort Lee, and Edgewater.
Bergen County Market Overview
Start Your First-Time Homebuyer Programs Journey in Bergen County Today
Get pre-approved and start shopping in any of Bergen County's 70 towns with confidence
NMLS #1577754 | Equal Housing Opportunity