First-time home buyer programs in Missouri
Missouri's MHDC First Place program delivers cash assistance worth up to 4% of the loan amount as a 0%-interest second that's fully forgiven after 10 years — one of the cleaner forgivable structures in the Midwest.
Brokers in our network can pair these programs with competing loan offers — free, no obligation.
First Place Loan
MHDC's first-time buyer mortgage with forgivable cash assistance.
- Cash assistance up to 4% of the loan amount
- 0% interest, no monthly payment — fully forgiven after 10 years
- Minimum 640 credit score; county income limits apply
- First-time buyers and qualified veterans (3-year rule applies elsewhere)
Next Step
The companion program when First Place isn't the fit.
- Serves repeat buyers and higher-income households
- Same cash-assistance structure with program-specific limits
- FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional options
- Kansas City note: Jackson County uses the 2026 FHA floor of $541,287
Program terms, income limits, and funding availability change throughout the year — confirm current details with MHDC or a licensed Missouri broker before relying on them.
Pair assistance with an FHA loan in Missouri
Most Missouri first-time buyers combine down payment assistance with an FHA first mortgage. 2026 FHA one-unit limits run from $541,287 (the national floor) up to $541,287 in Kansas City.
See all 2026 Missouri FHA loan limits →Find a broker in your Missouri market
Local brokers know which programs are funded right now and how to stack them:
Missouri first-time buyer FAQ
How does Missouri's First Place assistance work?
You receive up to 4% of your loan amount in cash assistance at closing, structured as a 0% second with no payments — and after 10 years in the home it's completely forgiven.
Who qualifies for MHDC First Place?
First-time buyers (no primary residence owned in 3 years) and qualified veterans, with a 640+ credit score and income inside county limits. You apply through MHDC-participating lenders.
Can repeat buyers get Missouri assistance?
Yes — MHDC's Next Step program serves repeat and higher-income buyers with a similar cash-assistance structure.
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