Homeownership Assistance
VA Loans, NH Support & Local Veteran Programs
Veterans in New Hampshire have multiple robust pathways to homeownership, both federal and local. The VA Home Loan remains the most powerful tool, with state-level assistance (like NHHFA’s $15K aid) enhancing affordability. Support services like counseling agencies and Habitat for Humanity programs further ease the process.
- VA Home Loans
- What It Offers: Zero-down-payment mortgages, no private mortgage insurance (PMI), competitive interest rates, and flexibility on credit and debt-to-income ratios. Can be used for purchasing single-family homes, condos, multi-unit properties, new construction, and more. A funding fee of 0–3.6% applies (waived for certain disability statuses).Benefits: Up to 103.6% financing, no PMI, favorable underwriting, reusable benefit with continuing eligibility.
- How to Apply: VA doesn’t lend directly—veterans apply through VA-approved lenders.
- Contact:
a. VA Regional Loan Center (Boston Regional Office serves NH): [Specific contact details available on va.gov under “Regional Loan Centers”]
b. Local Lenders with VA loan expertise—search for “VA-approved lender New Hampshire”
1. New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority (NHHFA) offers multiple veteran-accessible programs:
- Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance: Up to $15,000, structured as a second mortgage with zero interest, no monthly payments over a 30-year term.
- Homebuyer Tax Credit: Mortgage Credit Certificate providing up to $2,000/year in tax credits for eligible buyers (including first-time veterans).
- Homebuyer Education Seminars: Workshops like “Secrets of Homebuying” (AHEAD), “Homebuyer Seminars” (HOMEteam), and webinars.
- Contact:
- Address: 32 Constitution Dr, Bedford, NH 03110
- Phone: 603.472.8623 or 800.640.7239
- Homeownership Division: email ownershipinfo@nhhfa.org
2. Local Housing Authorities & Programs
- Manchester Housing Authority: Down payment assistance and homebuyer education.
- Nashua Housing Authority: Similar supports for Nashua veterans.
- Concord Housing Authority: Homebuyer assistance for Concord residents.
- Derry Housing Authority: Financial support for Derry.
3. Habitat for Humanity Veteran Programs
- Greater Manchester, Greater Nashua, Concord, Greater Derry, Greater Keene all run veterans-focused programs. These offer affordable homes and often require “sweat equity” (homeowner participation in construction).
4. HUD-Approved Housing Counselors to help veterans navigate financing and eligibility:
- AHEAD: 603.444.1377
- Community Home Solutions: 603.474.7449
- NeighborWorks Southern NH (HOMEteam): 866.701.9097
- The Housing Partnership: 603.431.3620
- NH Housing Finance Authority: 603.472.8623 / 603.310.9287
1. USDA Section 502 Direct Loan (Rural Housing)
- Available in qualifying rural areas for veterans with low income.
- Offers subsidized loan payments to enhance affordability.