In short: First-time buyers in Hampton Roads can use Virginia Housing (formerly VHDA) loans and grants, including a down payment assistance grant of about 2% to 2.5% of the purchase price and a closing cost grant that doesn't need to be repaid. Norfolk's Homeward Norfolk program offers up to $60,000 for eligible buyers in qualifying neighborhoods. Military buyers can also use VA loans with no down payment. Income limits and eligibility rules apply, so talk with an approved lender first.
Buying your first home in Hampton Roads may take less cash than you think. Between state grants, local programs, and VA loans, many first-time buyers qualify for real help with the down payment and closing costs.
Statewide: Virginia Housing
Virginia Housing, still often called VHDA, is the state's housing finance agency. It offers:
- Down Payment Assistance Grant: money for your down payment that does not need to be repaid, typically about 2% to 2.5% of the purchase price for qualified first-time buyers.
- Closing Cost Assistance Grant: helps cover closing costs on eligible VA and USDA (Rural Housing Service) loans.
- 30-year fixed-rate loans, some with zero down payment options.
- Virginia Housing Plus Second Mortgage, for buyers who don't qualify for a grant because of income limits.
You'll work through a Virginia Housing-approved lender, and most programs require a free homebuyer education class.
Norfolk: Homeward Norfolk
Norfolk's Homeward Norfolk program offers up to $60,000 in down payment and closing cost help for households under 80% of area median income, and up to $40,000 for households between 80% and 120%. It's for first-time buyers, and the home must be in an eligible Norfolk neighborhood. The Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority's HomeNet Homeownership Center also offers homebuyer education and counseling.
Other Hampton Roads cities
Programs vary by city and change often. According to the Hampton Roads Planning District Commission, Virginia Beach did not have a dedicated homebuyer assistance program at last check, but its residents can still use Virginia Housing grants. Check the HRPDC's program list or ask your lender for current options in Chesapeake, Portsmouth, Suffolk, Hampton, and Newport News.
Military and veteran buyers
- VA loans allow eligible service members and veterans to buy with no down payment and no monthly mortgage insurance.
- Virginia Housing also offers resources for military and veteran buyers, including education classes.
How to get started
- Talk to a lender who offers Virginia Housing programs. They'll tell you what you qualify for.
- Take a homebuyer education class. Many programs require it.
- Get pre-approved so you know your budget.
- Pick an agent who knows these programs. Some grants have rules that affect your contract and timeline.
Ready to start?
We work with first-time buyers across Hampton Roads and can connect you with lenders who know these programs well. Visit our buyers page or contact us.
Sources: Virginia Housing: Loans and grants; HouseBuyerGuides: Norfolk homebuyer programs; City of Norfolk: Housing resources; HRPDC: Homebuyer assistance programs; VA.gov: Funding fee and closing costs. Program details change; confirm current terms with an approved lender. Figures are for general information and can change; contact us for advice on your specific situation.
Frequently asked questions
Virginia Housing (formerly VHDA) offers first-time buyer loans, a down payment assistance grant of about 2% to 2.5% of the price, a closing cost grant for VA and USDA loans, and a second mortgage option. Income and other eligibility rules apply.
Yes. Homeward Norfolk offers up to $60,000 for first-time buyers under 80% of area median income and up to $40,000 for those between 80% and 120%, for homes in eligible Norfolk neighborhoods.
Some buyers can. VA loans for eligible service members and veterans require no down payment, and some Virginia Housing loans offer zero-down options. You will still have closing costs, which grants or seller credits can sometimes cover.
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