Louisiana Housing Corporation (LHC) Programs:
Updated March 2026LHC offers 30-year fixed-rate mortgages at below-market rates and down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers (no primary residence in past 3 years, waived in targeted areas) through approved lenders. No statewide sales price limit; income limits vary by parish (higher in targeted areas). Mandatory homebuyer education required. Verify current rates, income/purchase limits, and targeted areas at lhc.la.gov/homeownership or contact an LHC-approved lender. Programs remain active with steady funding in 2026.
Louisiana First-Time Homebuyer Mortgage Programs:
Eligibility: First-time homebuyers or those not owning in past 3 years (waived in targeted areas); low-to-moderate income.
Offerings: 30-year fixed-rate mortgages (FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional) with competitive below-market rates and low down payment options.
Requirements:
- Income ≤ parish-specific limits (varies by household size; e.g., ~$98,000–$140,000+ in high-cost areas like Orleans/Jefferson; lower in rural parishes—check LHC income chart).
- Minimum credit score: 620+ (varies by loan type).
- Debt-to-income ratio typically ≤45% (up to 50% with compensating factors).
- Mandatory homebuyer education (free via LHC-approved counselors or online courses).
Down Payment Assistance (DPA) Options:
LHC DPA Grant: Up to 4% of purchase price (max ~$10,000–$15,000 depending on loan/program) as a grant (no repayment) or deferred second mortgage (0% interest; repayable on sale/refinance).
Forgivable DPA: Portions forgiven after occupancy period (e.g., 5–10 years in some cases).
Eligibility: Must pair with LHC first mortgage; income-based; minimum buyer contribution often required.
Louisiana Heroes Program:
Description: Enhanced DPA and rate benefits for teachers, firefighters, law enforcement, healthcare workers, military/veterans, and other public servants.
Eligibility: Qualify for standard LHC mortgage + proof of eligible profession; income limits apply.
Local Programs (Examples):
Parish/city programs offer additional deferred/forgivable assistance—funding limited; verify local housing authorities or LHC partners.
New Orleans / Orleans Parish
New Orleans Homebuyer Assistance Program: Up to $15,000+ deferred/forgivable for down payment/closing in city limits; income-based; counseling required—check nola.gov/housing.
Baton Rouge / East Baton Rouge Parish
Baton Rouge Homeownership Assistance: Assistance through regional partners (often SHIP-like funds) for low/moderate-income buyers; education required—see brla.gov/housing.
Shreveport / Caddo Parish
Shreveport Homebuyer Programs: Local grants/loans (up to $10,000–$15,000 deferred) for eligible first-time buyers—check local housing authority.
Additional Information:
- USDA Loans: 0% down in eligible rural Louisiana areas; income limits apply.
- VA Loans: 0% down for eligible veterans/active-duty military.
- FHA Loans: 3.5% minimum down (580+ credit; 10% if below 580).
Louisiana programs emphasize flexible DPA and targeted support—always confirm with an LHC-approved lender or lhc.la.gov. Seeking Agents® connects you with Louisiana agents who understand these programs and compete to offer reduced commissions or added services—free for buyers/sellers!
View First-Time Home Buyer Programs for: Maine
Frequently Asked Questions
What first-time home buyer programs are available in Louisiana?
Louisiana buyers may be able to use statewide assistance, parish or local housing programs, and federal financing such as FHA, VA, and USDA loans. Assistance options differ by location, income level, and program guidelines.
What first-time home buyer programs are available in Louisiana?
Louisiana buyers may be able to use statewide assistance, parish or local housing programs, and federal financing such as FHA, VA, and USDA loans. Assistance options differ by location, income level, and program guidelines.
Who qualifies as a first-time home buyer in Louisiana?
Many Louisiana programs define a first-time buyer as someone who has not owned a primary residence during the prior three years. Some borrowers may still qualify under alternative eligibility rules.
Who qualifies as a first-time home buyer in Louisiana?
Many Louisiana programs define a first-time buyer as someone who has not owned a primary residence during the prior three years. Some borrowers may still qualify under alternative eligibility rules.
How much down payment assistance can Louisiana buyers receive?
Louisiana assistance may provide funds for the down payment, closing costs, or both. The amount depends on the program and may be offered through a grant, a second mortgage, or deferred financing.
How much down payment assistance can Louisiana buyers receive?
Louisiana assistance may provide funds for the down payment, closing costs, or both. The amount depends on the program and may be offered through a grant, a second mortgage, or deferred financing.
Do Louisiana home buyer programs require education?
Many Louisiana programs require a homebuyer education course as part of the approval process. This helps buyers understand budgeting, financing, and the long-term costs of owning a home.
Do Louisiana home buyer programs require education?
Many Louisiana programs require a homebuyer education course as part of the approval process. This helps buyers understand budgeting, financing, and the long-term costs of owning a home.
Can a Louisiana real estate agent help me use buyer assistance programs?
Yes. A Louisiana agent familiar with these programs can help you identify homes that match program limits, coordinate with your lender, and avoid contract issues tied to financing timelines.
Can a Louisiana real estate agent help me use buyer assistance programs?
Yes. A Louisiana agent familiar with these programs can help you identify homes that match program limits, coordinate with your lender, and avoid contract issues tied to financing timelines.