Can I buy a house in Orlando with no money down?
Yes, you can buy a home in Orlando with no money down—if you qualify for specific loan programs designed to help buyers with limited upfront cash. These programs include VA loans for veterans and active military, and USDA loans for eligible rural and suburban areas in Central Florida.
VA loans require no down payment and no private mortgage insurance (PMI), making them a powerful tool for those who’ve served. USDA loans are geared toward low-to-moderate-income buyers purchasing in eligible areas like parts of Apopka, Clermont, or St. Cloud. Both options can significantly reduce upfront costs.
Beyond those, some local down payment assistance programs through Florida Housing or city/county initiatives may help cover upfront costs or offer grants and second mortgages that don’t have to be repaid until you sell the home or refinance. These often work with FHA or conventional loans that have low minimum down payments—typically 3% to 3.5%.
However, even with a “zero down” loan, you’ll still need some cash for closing costs, inspections, and prepaid expenses. Sometimes, you can negotiate for the seller to contribute toward closing costs to reduce what you owe at the table.
Working with an experienced Central Florida Realtor—like me, Eve Metlis with Watson Realty—means you won’t miss opportunities to leverage these programs. I can help connect you with trusted lenders who offer them and guide you through eligibility and paperwork.
Bottom line: If saving for a down payment has held you back, don’t count yourself out. With the right financing strategy, you could be closer to homeownership in Orlando than you think.