First-time Homebuyer Mortgage
OpenRIHousingRIFirst-Time Homeowner
Updated: Dec 1, 2025
Summary
RIHousing’s First-time Homebuyer Mortgage is the core state-backed first-lien product that pairs low, fixed rates with optional down payment assistance so Rhode Islanders can finance up to 100% of a reasonably priced home.
Benefits
Who Can Apply
Eligible Locations
First-time homebuyers purchasing eligible homes in Rhode Island using a RIHousing first-time homebuyer mortgage.
Eligibility
First-time homebuyers purchasing an owner-occupied home in Rhode Island who meet RIHousing income and purchase-price limits (with example thresholds around $137,160 for 1–2 person households and $160,020 for 3+), qualify under conventional, FHA, VA, or other program underwriting, and work with a Participating Lender or the RIHousing Loan Center to obtain financing, often coupled with Extra Assistance or other DPA options.
Full Description
Verification & Details
Recommended Resource
First-Time Homebuyer Starter Pack (2025 Edition)
A complete first-time homebuyer toolkit: 9 checklists, timelines, grant guidance, worksheets + editable Excel/Google Sheet budget & affordability calculator.
More statewide programs
Explore additional grants available throughout Rhode Island that complement this opportunity.
City of Providence & Housing Network of Rhode IslandRIFirst-Time Homeowner
Updated: Nov 29, 2025
The Providence Down Payment Assistance Program offers income-eligible first-time buyers in Providence a forgivable, zero-interest loan of up to $20,000 to cover down payment and closing costs, making urban homeownership far more attainable.
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RIHousing’s 15kDPA program gives first-time Rhode Island buyers a flat $15,000 boost toward down payment and closing costs, structured as a silent 0% loan that sits behind a RIHousing first mortgage.
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FirstGenHomeRI is a pilot initiative that targets first-generation buyers in a handful of Rhode Island’s most housing-stressed communities, offering a generous $25,000 in forgivable assistance to close the down payment and closing-cost gap.
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Extra Assistance is RIHousing’s flexible second-mortgage product that can add up to 6% of the purchase price (capped at $20,000) on top of a RIHousing loan to cover down payment and closing costs.
Eligible for: First-time homebuyers purchasing a 1–4 family home or condominium in Rhode Island who have at least a 620–660 credit score, meet RIHousing i…