You’llFactor in closing costs (2–5% of the home price) and an emergency maintenance fund (aim for 1–3% of the home's value) so a leaky roof doesn't become a financial crisis. 2. Specialized Assistance Programs

You don’t have to do this alone. There are programs specifically designed to help:

These allow for a down payment as low as 3.5% and are more forgiving of lower credit scores.