Unlocking Homeownership: Down Payment Assistance Programs for Tulsa Homebuyers

Buying a home in Tulsa just got easier. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or looking to upgrade without draining your savings, Oklahoma offers several down payment assistance (DPA) programs that can help you get the keys to your dream home with little or no money down.

What is Down Payment Assistance?

Down Payment Assistance (DPA) helps cover part, or all of the down payment and sometimes closing costs. In Tulsa and throughout Oklahoma, these programs come in the form of:

  • Grants (no repayment)

  • Forgivable loans (repaid only if you sell or refinance early)

  • Deferred or repayable loans (often with low or no interest)

Why It Matters for Tulsa Homebuyers

With rising home prices, many qualified buyers are being held back by one key factor: the need for cash for the down payment. These DPA programs open the door to homeownership, especially for first-time buyers, teachers, first responders, and families who just need a little help to get started.

Top Down Payment Assistance Programs in Oklahoma & Tulsa

Here’s a breakdown of the most popular and effective DPA programs available to Tulsa homebuyers, including whether or not you need to be a first-time homebuyer.

1. USDA Rural Development Loan – 100% Financing


  • First-time buyer required? No

  • Best for: Buyers in eligible rural areas (yes, parts of Tulsa County qualify!)

  • Benefits: No down payment, low mortgage insurance, competitive rates

  • Requirements: Location and income limits apply

💡 Great for buyers looking outside of Tulsa city limits who want true 0% down options.

2. REI Oklahoma DPA


  • First-time buyer required? No

  • Best for: FHA, VA, USDA, or Conventional loans (including manufactured homes)

  • Benefits: Up to 5% assistance

  • Requirements: Varies by lender, must meet REI and loan guidelines

💡 Perfect for buyers who may not meet stricter income caps elsewhere.

3. OHFA (Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency) Programs


  • First-time buyer required? No (but perks for first-timers)

  • Best for: FHA, VA, USDA, HUD-184, and Conventional buyers

  • Benefits: Up to 3.5–5% down payment assistance, reduced rates for teachers and state employees

  • Requirements: Credit score ≥ 640, income and purchase price limits

💡 Most flexible program for Tulsa-area buyers—can be layered with other assistance.

4. Tulsa & Cleveland County First Home Program


  • First-time buyer required? Yes

  • Best for: Buyers purchasing within Tulsa or Cleveland counties

  • Benefits: Up to $5,000 in assistance, forgivable after 7 years

  • Requirements: First-time buyer, income caps, credit score ≥ 600, must complete homebuyer education

💡 Ideal for local buyers with modest income looking for stability and long-term roots.


5. Down Payment Plus® (Federal Home Loan Bank Program)


  • First-time buyer required? No

  • Best for: Buyers working with participating lenders

  • Benefits: Up to $10,000 in forgivable assistance

  • Requirements: Must contribute $1,000 of own funds, complete education course

💡 Can be layered with OHFA—great option for maxing out benefits.

6. Chenoa Fund


  • First-time buyer required? No

  • Best for: FHA borrowers

  • Benefits: 3.5% or 5% assistance, flexible income limits

  • Requirements: Credit score and DTI requirements

💡 One of the few options for buyers who need full down payment support on FHA loans.

7. National Homebuyers Fund


  • First-time buyer required? No

  • Best for: Buyers with higher income or unique financing needs

  • Benefits: Up to 5% assistance, no income restrictions, no DTI cap

  • Requirements: Participating lender approval

💡 Strong option for buyers who may not qualify elsewhere due to higher income or debt.

What’s the Best Program for You?


Scenario Best Program(s)
First-Time Buyer, Tulsa City Limits Tulsa First Home Program, OHFA
Zero Down in Rural Areas USDA Loan
Non-First-Time Buyer REI, Down Payment Plus, Chenoa, NHF
Low Credit (600–640) Tulsa First Home Program, OHFA with FHA
Teacher or State Employee OHFA (special rate programs)
Need Maximum Assistance Combine OHFA + Down Payment Plus

Final Thoughts for Tulsa Buyers

Don’t let a down payment hold you back. As a local Tulsa mortgage lender, Oklahoma Mortgage Group (OMG) is proud to guide you through these programs and help you choose the one that best fits your goals and budget.

Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to move up, our expert team knows the ins and outs of every program—and how to layer them for maximum savings.

✅ Let’s Get You Prequalified

Email us today to see which Tulsa down payment assistance programs you qualify for. Or click here to book a phone chat with us.  There’s never been a better time to own your own home in Oklahoma.




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