Home Buyer Down Payment Grants for Single Mothers in Idaho

Last updated: September 2025

If you’re a single mom buying in Idaho, start with the programs that actually fund closings, then add one or two local boosters. Use the steps and checklists below to move fast, protect your credit, and avoid dead-ends.

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If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• Call an approved lender who uses Idaho’s statewide down payment assistance to check same‑day eligibility and your exact cash‑to‑close.

  Use the statewide program through the nonprofit housing agency at Idaho Housing and Finance Association, book a consult at Idaho Housing Home Loans, and take the required class at Finally Home! Homebuyer Education. (idahohousing.com)

• If you’re buying inside Boise city limits, ask a partner nonprofit to screen you for the City of Boise Homeownership Opportunity Program on the very first call.

  Contact NeighborWorks Boise, connect with LEAP Housing, and review Boise’s official HOP policy (FY25) before you write an offer. (nwboise.org)

• If the home is rural or on the edge of town, ask USDA about zero‑down options and get routed to your regional loan specialist today.

  Start at USDA Rural Development Idaho, call the Idaho state office directory, and confirm if the address qualifies under the USDA Guaranteed 502 map and rules. (rd.usda.gov)

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Quick Help Box — Key Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

• Idaho Housing statewide down payment help: Call the main line at 1-855-505-4700, connect with a lender at Idaho Housing Home Loans, and review assistance rules at Down Payment & Closing Cost Assistance. (rentalassistanceportal.idahohousing.com)
• USDA Rural Development Idaho (home loans): State office 1-208-378-5600; area contacts listed at Idaho Contacts; program details at 502 Guaranteed (0% down). (rd.usda.gov)
• HUD‑approved housing counselors (free/low‑cost): Find one via HUD Counseling, see Idaho’s page at HUD Idaho, or call 1-800-569-4287 for live help. (hud.gov)
• Idaho 2‑1‑1 CareLine (everything local): Dial 2‑1‑1, text 898‑211, or use Idaho CareLine to get referrals for utilities, child care, and emergency rent while you stabilize for closing. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• Idaho Department of Finance (verify lenders or file complaints): Use Mortgage consumer page, call 1-888-346-3378, or review Contact Us if something feels off. (finance.idaho.gov)

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Who This Guide Is For

You want a plain‑English, no‑fluff path to cover the down payment, keep your out‑of‑pocket under control, and actually close. Idaho has a strong statewide program through Idaho Housing and Finance Association, targeted city help through City of Boise HOP, and rural zero‑down options via USDA Rural Development Idaho. Add trusted supports like HUD housing counselors to prep, then match your target neighborhood and loan type to the right program. (idahohousing.com)

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The Best Statewide Down Payment Options in Idaho

Idaho Housing and Finance Association (IHFA) — Down Payment & Closing Cost Assistance

Start here first. The statewide program lets many single moms close with far less cash.

• How it works: You pair your first mortgage with a small “second” for down payment/closing costs through Idaho Housing and Finance Association, you can put in as little as 0.5% of the purchase price from your own funds, and you take the Finally Home! Homebuyer Education class. Find a participating lender at Idaho Housing Home Loans and ask for a same‑day estimate of cash‑to‑close. (idahohousing.com)
• How much you can get: The assistance can go up to 7% of the purchase price, and it’s structured as a second mortgage you repay along with your main loan; your income typically needs to be at or below $170,000. Read the official summary at Down Payment & Closing Cost Assistance, confirm income at intake, and plan your class with Finally Home!. (idahohousing.com)
• Who qualifies fast: If you have steady income, mid‑600s credit, and can verify 0.5% from your own funds, get pre‑qualified with Idaho Housing Home Loans, ask about conventional vs. FHA, and use HUD counseling to tune your budget. If your offer is in a competitive area, have your lender call the listing agent and explain your financing. (homeloans.idahohousing.com)
• What to expect: Lender‑led files close on a normal purchase timeline (often 30–45 days), but ask your loan officer to run numbers both with and without the DPA so you see the trade‑off in payment. Read the Q&A on Down Payment & Closing Cost Assistance, compare your base rate at Idaho Housing Home Loans, and knock out class registration at Finally Home! on day one. (idahohousing.com)

Table — IHFA Down Payment & Closing Cost Assistance (DPA)

Eligibility basics: Verify that your total household income meets current limits listed on IHFA’s DPA page, complete Finally Home! before closing, and use a lender connected with Idaho Housing Home Loans for smoother processing. Sellers still accept IHFA financing in Idaho markets; more than 3,000 buyers used it in one recent year per IHFA. (idahohousing.com)

How to apply — step‑by‑step:

• Get pre‑qualified with a participating lender listed via Idaho Housing Home Loans, ask for DPA options up to the cap on IHFA’s DPA page, and register for Finally Home!. (homeloans.idahohousing.com)
• Upload income, assets, and ID; pull free prep advice from HUD counseling; and ask your lender to provide a two‑option Loan Estimate so you can compare with/without DPA. Use IHFA Home Loans for program‑specific disclosures. (homeloans.idahohousing.com)
• Lock a rate only after you have an accepted offer and inspection plan, then finish the Finally Home! certificate and sign second‑mortgage documents from IHFA. If a delay pops up, ask about extending your lock. (idahohousing.com)

Required documents: Expect W‑2s and pay stubs, 2 months of bank statements, a photo ID, your completed Finally Home! certificate, and standard loan disclosures. If you receive child support or spousal support, discuss voluntary documentation with your lender and confirm what must be counted under HUD counseling guidance and the CFPB toolkit. (hud.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you need more than 7% to make the numbers work, stack with city help (below), consider USDA 0% down options in eligible areas, or use the Idaho First‑time Home Buyer Savings Account to build a bigger cushion and try again in 60–90 days after tightening your budget with a HUD counselor. (rd.usda.gov)

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City of Boise — Homeownership Opportunity Program (HOP)

If you’re buying within Boise city limits, HOP can bridge bigger gaps than the statewide second mortgage.

• What it offers: Fee‑simple purchases can get up to $45,000,andcommunity‑land‑trustorotherdeed‑restrictedhomescangetupto$65,000. You must contribute at least 0.5% from your own funds and keep the home as your primary residence under Boise’s policy. Start on Boise’s Homeownership page, read the FY25 HOP Policy, and reach out through NeighborWorks Boise or LEAP Housing for intake. (cityofboise.org)
• Who qualifies: Household income between 50%–80% of Area Median Income (HUD’s annual limits apply), property must be inside Boise city limits, and you’ll be referred by a designated partner. The City details HUD‑compliant underwriting, minimum borrower cash, and resale/recapture terms in the official HOP policy. (cityofboise.org)
• Partners and contacts: The City takes referrals only from NeighborWorks Boise and LEAP Housing, and directs payment questions to the Housing & Community Development team. Boise lists a TTY at 1-800-377-3529 on the main HOP page for accessibility. (cityofboise.org)

Table — Boise HOP at a Glance (FY25)

How to apply — steps:

• Contact a partner nonprofit on day one via NeighborWorks Boise or LEAP Housing, confirm your household income vs. HUD’s limits, and ask which inventory and builders align with HOP. Keep the Boise HOP policy open while you shop. (nwboise.org)
• Use Idaho Housing DPA with HOP if your partner and lender can stack both without breaking debt‑to‑income, and complete Finally Home! early to avoid delays. Ask your agent to write contingencies that reflect HOP’s simple inspection and environmental review. (idahohousing.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re just outside Boise city limits or over income, pivot to IHFA statewide DPA, target a USDA‑eligible area using USDA’s program page, or look at land‑trust homes through LEAP Housing Trust to lower your price point. (rd.usda.gov)

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USDA Rural Development — Zero‑Down Options (Section 502)

USDA loans can remove the down payment entirely for eligible homes, which helps single moms conserve savings for emergencies.

• Two paths: The Section 502 Guaranteed Loan offers 100% financing through approved lenders for low‑ and moderate‑income buyers; the Section 502 Direct Loan is made by USDA to very‑low and low‑income buyers with payment assistance that can drop the effective rate near 1%. Confirm current direct‑loan rates and the “no down payment” rule on USDA’s pages. (rd.usda.gov)
• Contact your region: Start with USDA Rural Development Idaho, then call the Northern, Western, Central, or Eastern area office numbers listed under Idaho Contacts to speak to a Single Family Housing specialist the same day. Ask them to verify address eligibility and give you a realistic timeline based on funding in your county. (rd.usda.gov)
• Timelines and reality: USDA notes that processing times vary by funding and demand; direct loans may take longer than conventional or FHA closings, while guaranteed loans follow a normal lender schedule. Read the “processing times vary” note on the Direct Loan page, then plan for extra weeks if using direct and build that into your purchase contract. (rd.usda.gov)

Table — USDA at a Glance (Idaho)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your target home isn’t in a USDA area, combine IHFA DPA with a conventional 3% down or FHA 3.5% down loan; if your budget is tight, shift to a nearby rural‑eligible neighborhood as confirmed by USDA Idaho staff. (idahohousing.com)

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HUD Section 184 Indian Home Loan Guarantee — For Enrolled Tribal Members

Section 184 is a federal program that reduces down payment and eases underwriting for American Indian and Alaska Native borrowers.

• What it offers: Lower down payment and flexible underwriting for eligible borrowers on or off trust land, with fixed‑rate terms up to 30 years. Learn the basics at HUD Section 184 overview, check participating counties at Approved Counties by State, and call the Section 184 team at 1-800-561-5913. (hud.gov)
• Who qualifies: You must be an enrolled member of a federally recognized tribe, or be a tribe or TDHE using the program; see Borrower resources and Participating Tribes for the latest lists. Pair education with HUD housing counselors to prepare. (hud.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your tribe isn’t participating or your county isn’t approved, use IHFA DPA and ask a lender who knows USDA 0% down to compare the monthly payment. Consider community land trust homes through LEAP Housing Trust for lower upfront price. (idahohousing.com)

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VA Home Loans — For Eligible Veterans, Service Members, and Some Surviving Spouses

If you’re a veteran or on active duty, VA loans can be a powerful zero‑down option.

• Core benefits: No required down payment in most cases, no monthly mortgage insurance, and competitive rates. Review the program at VA Home Loans, read the Purchase Loan details, and confirm entitlement/limits at VA Entitlement and Loan Limits. (va.gov)
• Fees and exemptions: Check whether your VA funding fee is waived (e.g., for service‑connected disability) at VA Funding Fee & Closing Costs, then get a COE and shop lenders. Pair prep work with HUD housing counselors if you want extra support. (va.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your VA offer isn’t accepted in a hot zip code, ask a lender to add IHFA DPA to reduce closing costs, or target USDA‑eligible suburbs via USDA RD Idaho to broaden your search. (idahohousing.com)

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Idaho’s First‑time Home Buyer Savings Account — State Income Tax Deduction

If you need extra time to build funds, Idaho lets you deduct contributions toward your first home.

• How it works: You open a First‑time Home Buyer (FTHB) savings account at a bank/credit union, contribute up to $15,000/year(single)or$30,000/year (married filing jointly), and deduct contributions plus interest on your Idaho return. See Idaho State Tax Commission’s FTHB page, then review the law at Idaho Code §63‑3022V and call the Tax Commission if you have questions. (tax.idaho.gov)
• Limits: Aggregate lifetime deposits (including interest) are capped at $100,000, and you must wait 30 days after opening before first withdrawal; use funds for down payment and eligible closing costs only. Confirm details on the Tax Commission page and bring your 1099/ID‑FTHB statements to your tax preparer. (tax.idaho.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you need help now, not next spring, stack IHFA DPA with seller credits and a modest gift. If you already own but need repairs, Boise’s Home Improvement Program or LIHEAP/WAP may help stabilize costs while you regroup. (cityofboise.org)

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Local Nonprofits and Community Programs to Know

• NeighborWorks Boise (lending + classes): Nonprofit lender offering homebuyer education, loans, and access to local DPA including up to $45,000 inside Boise when paired with the City’s program. Start at NeighborWorks Boise Down Payment Assistance, check Home Loans, and coordinate with IHFA DPA for stacking. (nwboise.org)
• LEAP Housing (community land trust + 0% DPA on select homes): The LEAP Housing Trust separates land cost, and some buyers receive 0% down‑payment loans and below‑market rate mortgages. Learn more at LEAP Homeownership and ask how it pairs with IHFA programs. (leaphousing.org)
• Self‑Help Housing (your sweat equity becomes the down payment): In Southeast Idaho, SEICAA builds groups of homes where your labor counts as down payment; in the Magic Valley, SCCAP and news on recent cohorts show how teams close with USDA Direct and no cash down. (seicaa.org)
• City/County items to scan: Boise’s HOP is active; Caldwell and Pocatello steer federal funds via CDBG pages and CDBG Pocatello; Nampa focuses on home repair loans (not DPA). Always call to confirm current availability before applying. (cityofboise.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If local grant pools are empty this quarter, set reminders with IHFA program bulletins, keep shopping with IHFA DPA, and use HUD counselors for plan‑B budgeting until funds refresh. (info.idahohousing.com)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

• Statewide DPA (IHFA): Up to 7% of price; you put in 0.5%; class required; see IHFA DPA, Home Loans, and Finally Home!. (idahohousing.com)
• Boise HOP: Up to $45kfee‑simpleor$65k for CLT/deed‑restricted; partners only; read Boise HOP and FY25 HOP Policy; contact NeighborWorks. (cityofboise.org)
• USDA 0% down: Use 502 Guaranteed through lenders or 502 Direct; call USDA Idaho to reach your area office. (rd.usda.gov)
• Section 184 (tribal members): See HUD Section 184 and Borrower resources; call 1‑800‑561‑5913 for help. Pair with HUD counseling. (hud.gov)
• Idaho FTHB Savings Account: Deduct contributions on state taxes; start with Tax Commission’s page and read Idaho Code §63‑3022V. (tax.idaho.gov)

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Application Checklist You Can Screenshot

• Photo ID and Social Security card: Store scans securely and share only via your lender’s secure portal at Idaho Housing Home Loans, or ask your lender for an encrypted link. Pair with HUD counseling if you need a second set of eyes.
• Income docs: Last two pay stubs and 2 years of W‑2s; if self‑employed, two years of returns. Keep them handy for IHFA DPA and USDA.
• Assets: Two months of bank statements for checking/savings; document any gift funds. Organize for Boise HOP and IHFA lenders.
• Education certificate: Upload Finally Home! or an equivalent HUD course from HUD counseling to your lender and program partner.
• Purchase contract and disclosures: Your agent should include time for HOP review or USDA approval; confirm timelines with USDA Idaho offices and Boise HOP staff. (rd.usda.gov)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the required class: “Finally Home!” is required for IHFA DPA and respected by sellers; schedule it on day one through Finally Home! and log your goal with a HUD counselor. (idahohousing.com)
• Shopping outside an eligible map: Don’t assume a neighborhood is USDA‑eligible; verify with USDA Guaranteed page and call your Idaho area office to confirm the address. (rd.usda.gov)
• Not stacking correctly: Some buyers try to stack programs that conflict; always ask your lender how IHFA DPA interacts with Boise HOP and read the HOP policy for rules. (cityofboise.org)
• Applying with an unlicensed company: Before you share documents, search the Idaho Department of Finance mortgage page and call 1-888-346-3378 to verify the company. Add a HUD counselor for a neutral read of your Loan Estimate. (finance.idaho.gov)

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Reality Check

• Funding can run out or pause: Local city funds, and some nonprofit pools, are periodic and limited. If that happens, pivot to IHFA DPA, track new funding windows at City of Boise HOP, and subscribe to IHFA Program Bulletins so you’re ready next round. (cityofboise.org)
• USDA timing varies: USDA confirms that processing times depend on funding and demand; build cushion into your offer if you use 502 Direct and keep your file clean to avoid re‑underwriting. Pair with HUD counseling for timeline prep. (rd.usda.gov)
• Monthly payment trade‑offs are real: Second‑mortgage assistance slightly raises the total payment. Compare both paths on IHFA’s DPA page, then choose the safer cushion for your family. Use the CFPB’s Home Loan Toolkit to read your Loan Estimate line‑by‑line. (idahohousing.com)

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Resources by Region (Contacts You Can Call Today)

Table — USDA Rural Development Area Offices (Idaho)

Table — IHFA Branch Offices (Rental/Info Lines Often Share Resources)

Local energy and utility stabilization (to protect mortgage readiness):

• For electricity in much of Idaho use Idaho Power numbers (208-388-2323 or 1-800-488-6151), request Winter Protection & payment options, and watch scam alerts. (idahopower.com)
• For natural gas use Intermountain Gas (Treasure Valley 208‑377‑6840; elsewhere 1‑800‑548‑3679), ask about Project Warmth, and request payment plans through Customer Service. (intgas.com)
• For North Idaho electricity check Avista, call 1‑800‑227‑9187, and read assistance options to avoid shutoff while you’re in escrow. Use scam protection tips. (myavista.com)

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Diverse Communities — Tailored Notes and Links

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Use fair‑housing protections through HUD Fair Housing resources, get neutral mortgage prep from HUD counseling, and verify lenders via the Idaho Department of Finance mortgage page. If you need emergency stabilization while house‑hunting, call Idaho 2‑1‑1 CareLine for local supports and legal referrals. (hud.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Prioritize accessible units and request accommodations in the process using HUD counseling, see Boise’s repair help via Home Improvement Program, and contact LIHEAP/WAP to free up cash for closing. When calling utilities, ask for TTY/relay or language line if needed; Boise lists TTY on HOP. (hud.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Compare zero‑down paths with VA Home Loans, add IHFA DPA for closing costs, and check funding‑fee waivers at VA Funding Fee page. If rural homes fit your budget, ask your lender about USDA Guaranteed 0% down. (va.gov)
• Immigrant/Refugee single moms: Get unbiased prep at HUD counseling (ask for interpreters), use IHFA DPA to lower cash‑to‑close, and call Idaho 2‑1‑1 CareLine for ESL classes, childcare, and transportation help tied to your closing timeline. If buying in Boise, ask a partner listed on Boise HOP to connect you with translated forms. (hud.gov)
• Tribal‑specific resources: If you’re an enrolled tribal member, learn HUD Section 184 basics, confirm county eligibility via Approved Counties by State, and ask your tribe or TDHE about down‑payment support. Round out your plan with HUD counseling and, if rural, consider USDA loans. (hud.gov)
• Rural single moms with limited access: Call USDA RD Idaho for the nearest office, ask about 502 Direct and self‑help builders like SEICAA, and combine IHFA DPA if the home is inside Boise city limits or an IHFA lender can stack programs. (rd.usda.gov)
• Single fathers (heads of household): The same programs apply regardless of gender; start at IHFA DPA, add HUD counseling for budgeting, and call USDA Idaho to verify if your target home is eligible for 0% down. (idahohousing.com)
• Language access: When scheduling with HUD counseling, request interpreters or translated materials; Boise HOP notes a TTY line on its program page, and the state’s 2‑1‑1 CareLine can connect you to bilingual support. (hud.gov)

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How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Idaho Today

Protect your credit and keep lights/heat on while you’re under contract.

• Call your utility first: For power, call Idaho Power at 208‑388‑2323 or 1‑800‑488‑6151 to set up payment arrangements and Winter Protection; for gas, call Intermountain Gas at 208‑377‑6840 or 1‑800‑548‑3679 and ask about Project Warmth. In North Idaho, call Avista at 1‑800‑227‑9187 and review assistance programs. (idahopower.com)
• Apply for crisis energy help: Idaho’s LIHEAP (energy bill help) offers seasonal and crisis benefits through Community Action Agencies; see rules and income limits on About Heating Assistance and explore Weatherization (WAP) to lower bills long‑term. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• Get referrals fast: If you’re overwhelmed, contact Idaho 2‑1‑1 CareLine and ask for utility and housing resources today, or connect with HUD counseling to protect your credit before mortgage underwriting. Watch utility scam alerts to avoid surprise losses. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your lender if you can escrow for a past‑due bill at closing; combine LIHEAP crisis help, your utility’s winter plan, and a deferment agreement while you stabilize. If needed, delay closing to avoid a bounced underwrite and keep working your IHFA DPA plan. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

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County‑Specific Variations You’ll Notice

• Boise/Ada County: Active Boise HOP with partner intake; city funds update via annual action plans; call to check current availability and amounts in the FY25 HOP Policy. Combine with IHFA DPA to tighten cash‑to‑close. (cityofboise.org)
• Canyon County (Caldwell/Nampa): Caldwell uses CDBG, often for housing and infrastructure—not necessarily DPA; Nampa currently focuses on Home Repair Loans that are forgivable after five years, which can help if you already own or plan post‑purchase repairs. Keep IHFA DPA in the lead for down payment. (cityofcaldwell.org)
• Twin Falls/Magic Valley: Self‑Help cohorts led by SCCAP have helped many buyers close with USDA Direct; check recent progress at KMVT coverage and watch for new groups at local offices. Pair with IHFA DPA if you go the guaranteed route. (kmvt.com)
• Pocatello/Idaho Falls (SE/E Idaho): SEICAA runs Self‑Help Housing in new subdivisions; keep in touch with EICAP for stabilization and energy upgrades if you’re already a homeowner. Use USDA Idaho contacts to confirm address eligibility. (seicaa.org)

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Tables — Side‑by‑Side Comparisons You’ll Use

Table — Program Fit by Situation

Table — Utility Stabilization While You Shop

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Troubleshooting: If Your Application Gets Denied

• Ask for specifics in writing: Have your lender list the exact reason (credit, income, assets, ratios). Use HUD counseling to make a 30–60‑day correction plan, then re‑run with IHFA DPA or USDA. (hud.gov)
• Escalate if something feels wrong: Verify the company’s license at Idaho Department of Finance — Mortgage, file a complaint via Contact Us, and seek a second opinion from an IHFA‑connected lender at Home Loans. (finance.idaho.gov)
• Try a different program fit: If DPA isn’t enough, switch to Boise HOP inside city limits, or move your home search to a USDA‑eligible area with 0% down. Use IHFA DPA as a backup stack. (cityofboise.org)

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Real‑World Examples

• South Boise purchase (stacked help): A mom buying a deed‑restricted townhome used Boise HOP plus a small IHFA DPA second to bring cash‑to‑close under $3,000, guided by NeighborWorks Boise. Her agent wrote time for city review and used the HOP policy to structure contingencies. (cityofboise.org)
• Magic Valley self‑help cohort: A group of families closed with USDA Direct 502 after months of sweat equity through SCCAP, as covered by local news and follow‑up coverage. If you can spare evenings/weekends, self‑help can substitute for a down payment. (rd.usda.gov)
• Treasure Valley veteran: A veteran mom compared VA Purchase loan vs. USDA Guaranteed in a rural‑adjacent zip code; her lender showed similar cash‑to‑close, while VA avoided monthly mortgage insurance. She used IHFA DPA only for closing costs. (va.gov)

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FAQs (Idaho, 2025)

• How much down payment help can I get statewide with IHFA? Up to 7% of the purchase price, with a 0.5% minimum from your own funds, plus completion of Finally Home!. Start at IHFA’s DPA page and connect through Home Loans. (idahohousing.com)
• What are the Boise HOP amounts and who qualifies? Boise offers up to $45,000forfee‑simplepurchasesandupto$65,000 for CLT/deed‑restricted homes; income must be 50%–80% AMI and you contribute 0.5%. Read the FY25 HOP Policy and call a partner listed on Boise’s HOP page. (cityofboise.org)
• Is there a true zero‑down loan in Idaho without grants? Yes — USDA’s 502 Guaranteed and 502 Direct are zero‑down in eligible areas; veterans often use VA purchase loans with 0% down. (rd.usda.gov)
• How long does USDA Direct take right now? USDA notes that processing times vary by funding and demand; talk with your regional specialist listed on USDA Idaho Contacts and ask for a realistic timeline before you write an offer. (rd.usda.gov)
• Can I stack Boise HOP with IHFA DPA? Often yes, if your lender and partner can structure it within underwriting and debt‑to‑income limits. Coordinate through Boise HOP partners, your IHFA lender, and read HOP’s policy. (cityofboise.org)
• I’m an enrolled tribal member — should I look at Section 184? Yes — HUD Section 184 is built for Native borrowers and can lower the down payment and ease underwriting; confirm county eligibility via Approved Counties. (hud.gov)
• Is there an Idaho tax break for first‑time home buyers? Yes — you can deduct contributions to a First‑time Home Buyer Savings Account (see Idaho Code §63‑3022V). This won’t replace cash now, but it helps you save toward your target. (tax.idaho.gov)
• Who can help me read my Loan Estimate? A HUD‑approved housing counselor can walk through terms; the CFPB’s Home Loan Toolkit also has step‑by‑step worksheets you can print. (hud.gov)
• Where can I verify a lender or file a complaint in Idaho? Search or call the Idaho Department of Finance; statewide toll‑free is 1‑888‑346‑3378 on the Contact Us page. (finance.idaho.gov)
• I’m short on cash because of high utilities — what now? Ask Idaho Power for Winter Protection/payment plans, apply for LIHEAP crisis help, and call 2‑1‑1 CareLine for same‑day referrals. (idahopower.com)
• What’s the interest rate for USDA Direct this month? USDA posts the current rate and notes payment assistance can reduce the effective rate; check USDA Direct page for the latest (as of September 1, 2025, USDA lists 5.125% before assistance). (rd.usda.gov)

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Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

Use these to fill gaps while you’re gathering funds or waiting for approvals.

• Idaho 2‑1‑1 CareLine can connect you to churches with benevolence funds, childcare help that frees work hours, and food pantries so you can save for earnest money. Combine with HUD counseling and call your utility’s assistance line (Idaho Power). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
• Nonprofits building or selling affordably include NeighborWorks Boise, LEAP Housing, and self‑help groups like SEICAA; ask each how their homes pair with IHFA DPA. (nwboise.org)
• For domestic violence safety and planning during a move, the state council lists hotlines at Idaho Council on Domestic Violence; coordinate housing steps with HUD counseling and the Idaho CareLine for safe‑harbor referrals. (icdv.idaho.gov)

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What to Bring to Every Appointment

• Printed ID and pay stubs: Keep them in a folder and on your phone. Confirm secure upload with IHFA lenders, use HUD counselors if you want a pre‑review, and keep IHFA’s DPA page open to confirm rules. (homeloans.idahohousing.com)
• Utility plan proof: If you’re on a payment plan, bring the confirmation from Idaho Power or Intermountain Gas — underwriters care that shutoff risk is addressed. If needed, add LIHEAP proof. (idahopower.com)

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Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español (traducción generada con herramientas de IA)

• Ayuda para el enganche (DPA) en todo Idaho: Hasta 7% del precio con Idaho Housing and Finance Association; usted aporta 0.5%; tome el curso Finally Home!; conecte con un prestamista en Idaho Housing Home Loans. (idahohousing.com)
• Boise (dentro de la ciudad): El programa HOP de Boise puede dar hasta $45,000(propiedadnormal)o$65,000 (viviendas con restricciones/CLT); contacte NeighborWorks Boise o LEAP Housing. (cityofboise.org)
• USDA — 0% de enganche: En zonas rurales elegibles con USDA 502 Garantizado o USDA 502 Directo; llame a USDA Idaho para confirmar la dirección. (rd.usda.gov)
• Miembro tribal: Revise HUD Sección 184 para menores requisitos de enganche; busque consejería de HUD. (hud.gov)
• Crisis de servicios públicos: Llame a Idaho Power, Intermountain Gas, y solicite LIHEAP; para referencias marque 2‑1‑1 CareLine. (idahopower.com)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• Idaho Housing and Finance Association — DPA, IHFA Home Loans, and Finally Home! for statewide assistance details. (idahohousing.com)
• City of Boise — HOP and the FY25 HOP Policy for local assistance amounts and rules. (cityofboise.org)
• USDA Rural Development Idaho, 502 Guaranteed, and 502 Direct for zero‑down rural options. (rd.usda.gov)
• HUD Section 184 and Borrower resources for tribal homeownership. (hud.gov)
• Idaho State Tax Commission — First‑time Homebuyers Deduction and Idaho Code §63‑3022V for the savings account deduction. (tax.idaho.gov)
• Idaho Department of Health & Welfare — LIHEAP/WAP and Idaho 2‑1‑1 CareLine for utility stabilization resources. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

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Disclaimer

This material is educational, not legal or financial advice. Always confirm current rules and funding before applying by checking IHFA’s DPA page, reading local policies like Boise HOP, and calling state/federal contacts at USDA RD Idaho or HUD counseling. Funding can change mid‑year; timelines depend on your file, property, and lender capacity. (idahohousing.com)

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Tip: Before you make any move, save this page, book a 20‑minute call with an IHFA‑connected lender at Idaho Housing Home Loans, and text 898‑211 to Idaho CareLine for backup supports in your county. (homeloans.idahohousing.com)

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🏛️More Idaho Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Idaho

• 📋 Assistance Programs
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• ⚖️ Legal Help
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• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
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• 🤝 Community Support
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• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
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• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
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• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery