How much down payment assistance does Zillow offer?

Eligible buyers may receive up to 3.5% of the home's purchase price toward their down payment, subject to program terms and lender approval.

Do I have to be a first-time homebuyer?

No. Zillow's down payment assistance program does not require buyers to be first-time homeowners. Eligible repeat buyers may also qualify.

Is there an income limit for Zillow's down payment assistance?

There is no income cap specified for the program. Applicants must still meet credit, mortgage, underwriting, and other eligibility requirements.

Can Wisconsin homebuyers apply for Zillow down payment assistance?

Yes. Wisconsin is included in Zillow's program service area, subject to current availability and lender approval.

How do I apply for Zillow Home Loans down payment assistance?

Visit Zillow Home Loans' official down payment assistance page to explore the program, connect with a loan officer, and begin the application process.

Home Buying Guide

Zillow Home Loan Down Payment Assistance: What Wisconsin Buyers Need to Know

Q: Do I have to repay Zillow's down payment assistance?

The assistance is structured as a 0% interest second mortgage with no monthly payment. It is forgiven after five years of on-time mortgage payments and continuous owner occupancy. If the buyer sells, refinances, or moves out before five years, the full assistance balance becomes due.

Learn how Zillow's new home loan assistance program could help eligible Wisconsin homebuyers with up to 3.5% toward their down payment.

Bottom Line Up Front: Zillow Home Loans offers eligible homebuyers up to 3.5% of a home's purchase price toward their down payment. This new home loan assistance program could make homeownership more accessible for Wisconsin buyers who need help covering upfront costs.

How Does Zillow's Down Payment Assistance Work?

Announced October 28, 2026, Zillow's down payment assistance program helps eligible buyers cover upfront homebuying costs through a second mortgage paired with an FHA loan from Zillow Home Loans.

The assistance comes with 0% interest and no monthly payment. The second mortgage is forgiven after five years of on-time mortgage payments and continuous owner occupancy.

However, if you sell, refinance, or move out before the five-year period ends, the full assistance balance becomes due. Regular mortgage payments, FHA mortgage insurance, and closing costs still apply.

For complete details, visit Zillow Home Loans' official down payment assistance page.

How Do I Qualify?

Buyers interested in Wisconsin home loan down payment assistance through Zillow must meet the program's eligibility requirements and receive lender approval.

Minimum credit score: 640.
Eligible mortgage: An FHA loan through Zillow Home Loans.
Primary residence: The property must be your main home.
Eligible location: The home must be in a state where the program is available.
Lender approval: Applicants must satisfy underwriting requirements and program terms.

Good news for buyers: There is no income cap, and you do not have to be a first-time homebuyer to qualify.

How Do I Apply for Zillow Down Payment Assistance?

Getting started with this new home loan assistance program begins with Zillow Home Loans. Follow these steps to explore your options.

Start online. Visit Zillow Home Loans' down payment assistance page to explore the program and begin the application process.
Connect with a loan officer. Discuss your financial situation, credit score, and potential eligibility.
Review your financing options. Determine whether the FHA mortgage and down payment assistance fit your budget and homebuying goals.
Complete your mortgage application. If you decide to proceed, your loan officer will guide you through underwriting and explain the documentation needed to close.

Pre-qualification does not guarantee approval. Your loan officer can confirm the current application process, eligibility, and final program terms.

Which States Are Eligible?

Zillow's program information identifies availability in 43 states and Washington, D.C. Wisconsin is included, making this a potential option for eligible local homebuyers.

Eligible states:

Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

Also available in: Washington, D.C.

Excluded states: Arizona, Delaware, Florida, Massachusetts, New York, Vermont, and Virginia.

Availability and program requirements can change. Confirm current state eligibility and all terms directly with Zillow Home Loans before applying.

Ready to Explore Your Homebuying Options?

The Borowski Group is Wisconsin's #1 Zillow Preferred Team, backed by more than 1,200 five-star Zillow reviews. Our team is committed to helping buyers and sellers navigate real estate with knowledgeable guidance, clear communication, and an exceptional client experience.

Whether you're exploring Wisconsin home loan down payment assistance, searching for Milwaukee real estate listings, or preparing to purchase your next home, our team is here to help you take the next step with confidence.

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Summary: Is Zillow Down Payment Assistance Right for You?

Zillow's new home loan assistance program offers eligible buyers up to 3.5% toward their down payment through a second mortgage that may be forgiven after five years. With no income cap or first-time buyer requirement, the program could help more Wisconsin buyers explore homeownership.

Start by reviewing the eligibility requirements, confirming current state availability, and speaking with a Zillow Home Loans loan officer. Contact The Borowski Group to get connected and explore your options.