USDA loan

A mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration, allowing low down payments and more flexible credit standards. Borrowers pay an upfront and annual mortgage insurance premium, and loan amounts are capped by county.

A mortgage guaranteed by the Department of Veterans Affairs for eligible veterans, service members and some surviving spouses. It usually needs no down payment and no monthly mortgage insurance, but most borrowers pay a one-time funding fee.

The part of the purchase price you pay in cash rather than borrow. A larger down payment lowers the loan amount and can remove the need for mortgage insurance on a conventional loan.

Someone buying their first home. Many programs define it as anyone who has not owned a home in the past three years, which can open access to special loans and assistance.

Programs, often run by state or local housing agencies, that help buyers cover the down payment or closing costs through grants or low-cost or forgivable second loans. Most have income, price or first-time buyer rules.