Down Payment Assistance

Down Payment Assistance: Your Path to Homeownership

At Bernard Guste - Mortgage Loan Originator, NMLS #79676, we're committed to making your dream of homeownership a reality in the Greater New Orleans area. Our down payment assistance programs offer a variety of options to help you overcome the initial financial hurdle of purchasing a home. These programs provide:

• Grants
• Forgivable loans
• Deferred-payment loans

Make Homeownership Possible with Down Payment Assistance

Struggling to save for a down payment? You're not alone—and you don’t have to wait to buy your dream home. Bernard Guste at Nexa Mortgage offers access to a wide range of Down Payment Assistance (DPA) programs designed to help first-time buyers and low-to-moderate income families overcome the upfront cost barrier. To be clear, you don’t have to be a first time home buyer for this assistance.

What Is Down Payment Assistance?

Down Payment Assistance programs provide grants, forgivable loans, or deferred-payment loans to help cover your down payment and sometimes closing costs. These programs are often offered by:

• State and local housing agencies
• Nonprofit organizations
• Employer-sponsored programs
• Specialized lenders

Who Qualifies?

You may be eligible for DPA if you:

• Are a first-time homebuyer
• Meet income and credit score requirements
• Plan to live in the home as your primary residence
• Complete a homebuyer education course (in some cases)

First-Time Homebuyer Loan Options

Helping You Buy Your First Home with Confidence

Buying your first home is a major milestone—and Bernard Guste is here to make it easier. As a seasoned Mortgage Loan Originator with Nexa Mortgage, Bernard specializes in guiding first-time buyers through every step of the process, offering access to affordable loan programs, down payment assistance, and personalized support.

Top Loan Options for First-Time Homebuyers

1% Down Conventional Loans

• Investor contributes 2% of the down payment leaving 1% for you to contribute
• Seller can pay up to 3% of closing costs

FHA Loans

• Low 3.5% down payment
• Flexible credit requirements
• Seller can pay up to 6% of closing costs
• Ideal for buyers with limited savings

Conventional 97 Loans

• Just 3% down for qualified borrowers
• Lower monthly mortgage insurance
• Great for buyers with good credit

VA Loans (for eligible veterans)

• Zero down payment
• No private mortgage insurance (PMI)
• Competitive interest rates

USDA Loans (for rural areas)

• No down payment required
• Income limits apply
• Must purchase in eligible locations

Down Payment Assistance Programs

Bernard helps first-time buyers access state and local down payment assistance, including:

• Grants and forgivable loans
• Deferred-payment options
• Coverage for closing costs and prepaid expenses

Programs available through:

• Louisiana Housing Corporation (LHC)
• City and parish-level initiatives
• Employer-sponsored programs
• Directly through some lenders

Homebuyer Education & Support

Some assistance programs require a homebuyer education course—and Bernard will guide you through it. You’ll learn:

• How to budget for your home
• What to expect during the loan process
• How to maintain long-term financial health

These financial tools can be used to cover your down payment and, in some cases, even your closing costs. Don't let the initial investment hold you back from owning your home. Contact us today to explore your options.

Recognizing Your Need for Down Payment Assistance

Identifying whether you qualify for down payment assistance is the first step towards homeownership. Benard Guste Powered By Nexa Mortgage can help you determine your eligibility. You might be a candidate if you:

• Are buying your first home
• Fall within specific income brackets
• Have a qualifying credit score
• Intend to use the property as your primary residence
• Are willing to complete a homebuyer education course

If any of these points resonate with you, it's time to reach out to Benard Guste Powered By Nexa Mortgage for a personalized assessment of your situation.

The Importance of Down Payment Assistance

Down payment assistance can be a game-changer in your homebuying journey. Here's why you might need this valuable service from Benard Guste Powered By Nexa Mortgage:

• Overcome the initial financial barrier to homeownership
• Preserve your savings for other homeownership costs
• Access competitive mortgage rates
• Benefit from local expertise in Louisiana housing programs
• Receive guidance from professionals with over 20 years in finance
• Get support tailored to self-employed and unique situations

Don't let financial constraints prevent you from owning your dream home. Reach out to Benard Guste Powered By Nexa Mortgage to explore how down payment assistance can work for you.

Advantages of Partnering with Benard Guste Powered By Nexa Mortgage

Choosing Benard Guste Powered By Nexa Mortgage for your down payment assistance needs offers numerous benefits. Here's what sets us apart:

• Access to over 270 lenders
• Competitive rates
• Loan estimates provided within 24 hours
• Rapid pre-approvals and clear communication
• Specialized solutions for self-employed borrowers
• Expert guidance on divorce-related mortgage planning
• Locally owned and veteran-operated since 2018
• Deep understanding of New Orleans real estate market
• Over 20 years in finance and mortgage lending

Experience the difference of working with a mortgage company that truly understands your needs. Contact Benard Guste Powered By Nexa Mortgage today.

Start Your Homeownership Journey Today

Your path to homeownership begins with a single step. Benard Guste Powered By Nexa Mortgage is here to guide you through the process of securing down payment assistance. Our team of experienced professionals is ready to assess your unique situation, explain your options, and help you navigate the complexities of homebuying. Don't let the dream of owning a home in the Greater New Orleans area slip away. Reach out to us today and let's turn your homeownership aspirations into reality.