Rising costs have popularized creative ownership strategies and new investment platforms.
: Provides Homebuyer Grants between $2,500 and $5,000 for closing costs or rate buydowns in eligible areas. home buying options
: Friends or family members jointly purchasing a property to share costs and build equity together. Affordability Swings Toward Home Buying Over Renting in
Affordability Swings Toward Home Buying Over Renting in 2026 500 and $5
: Backed by the Federal Housing Administration, these require only 3.5% down and are more flexible with lower credit scores (as low as 580) and higher debt-to-income ratios.
: Many states offer second mortgages with 0% interest that are completely forgiven if you stay in the home for a set period (often 3–5 years).
: Designed for rural and some suburban areas, offering 0% down options for moderate-income buyers.