Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or upgrading to your dream home, these trusted resources can help guide you every step of the way.
Indianapolis and Greenwood home buyer resources from DNA Properties Indy help you understand your options, find trusted lenders, and explore loan programs designed to make homeownership more achievable.
Get Pre-Approved with Trusted Indianapolis and Greenwood Home Buyer Lenders
Before you start touring homes, getting pre-approved helps you understand your budget and shows sellers you’re serious. Most won’t even consider your offer without a prequalification letter.
Understanding your loan options is an important first step toward homeownership. Different loan programs offer varying benefits, down payment requirements, and credit score guidelines. Here’s a quick overview of the most common types:
🏠 Conventional Loans
Typically require a 3%–20% down payment, depending on your credit and the lender’s criteria. Borrowers with credit scores of 620+ often qualify, and those putting down less than 20% will usually pay private mortgage insurance (PMI) until reaching 20% equity. Closing costs and fees can vary but are usually competitive.
🔑 FHA Loans
Backed by the Federal Housing Administration, these loans are ideal for first-time buyers or those with limited savings. FHA loans require a 3.5% down payment with a credit score of 580+. Borrowers with lower credit scores may still qualify with a 10% down payment. FHA loans include mortgage insurance premiums (MIP) that last for the life of the loan in most cases.
🎖️ VA Loans
Available exclusively to veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses, VA loans offer no down payment, no PMI, and competitive interest rates. They include a one-time VA funding fee that can be rolled into the loan amount. These loans are often the most cost-effective for qualified borrowers.
🏡 USDA Loans
Designed for buyers purchasing in eligible rural or suburban areas, USDA loans require no down payment and offer low interest rates. They do require guarantee fees (similar to mortgage insurance) and are income-restricted based on household size and area median income.
👴 Lifestyle Home Loan (Mutual of Omaha Mortgage)
Designed for homebuyers aged 62 and older, the Lifestyle Home Loan — also known as a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage for Purchase (H4P) — allows qualified buyers to purchase a new home using a one-time down payment, with no required monthly mortgage payments. Borrowers must continue to pay property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, and maintain the property.
This option can help retirees rightsize or relocate without depleting savings, using home equity to finance part of the purchase. Eligibility depends on age, home value, and financial assessment. The loan is insured by the FHA and offered through Mutual of Omaha Mortgage.
Each loan type has its own advantages, and the best choice depends on your credit profile, savings, and long-term goals. A trusted local lender can help you compare these programs, estimate monthly payments, and determine which fits your situation best.
Below are some experienced lenders who serve Indianapolis, Greenwood, and nearby areas:
📞 Luis Aparicio, Everwise Credit Union
Phone: (317) 710-2268
Email: laparicio@everwisecu.com
Website: Apply with Luis
🏡 Ryan Zaininger, Prosperity Home Mortgage
Phone: (317) 999-7723
Email: ryan.zaininger@phmloans.com
Website: Apply with Ryan
💬 Dwayne Thompson, Integrity Mortgage Group
Phone: (317) 437-6070
Email: dthompson@integritymtgs.com
Website: Apply with Dwayne
📞 Jenni Limbach, Crosscountry Mortgage
Phone: (765) 578-0196
Email: Jenni.Limbach@ccm.com
Website: Apply with Jenni
🏡 David Garrison, Mutual of Omaha, Home Equity Retirement Specialist
Phone: (765) 516-0130
Email: dgarrison@mutualmortgage.com
Website: Apply with Dave
💬 Dallas Williams, Liberty Federal Credit Union
Phone: (812) 583-3639
Email: dwilliams@libertyfcu.org
Website: Apply with Dallas
First-Time Home Buyer Guide
If you’re new to the process, this detailed guide from Realtor.com is a great place to start:
View the First-Time Buyer Guide
Many homebuyers are surprised to learn that you don’t always need a 20% down payment to buy a home. In fact, some programs allow you to purchase with as little as 3% down on Conventional loans, 3.5% down with FHA financing, or even no down payment at all for qualified VA and USDA buyers. These options make homeownership within reach for more Indiana families.
Working with a knowledgeable local lender is the best way to navigate these opportunities. They can help you identify down payment assistance (DPA) programs, grants, and forgivable loans that fit your income level, credit profile, and long-term goals. Explore the resources below to learn more about what’s available in Indianapolis, Greenwood, and surrounding communities.
Down Payment Assistance Programs
Homeownership is more achievable than many buyers realize. Several local and national programs can help cover your down payment or closing costs, especially for first-time or moderate-income buyers. Explore these trusted resources:
- Down Payment Resource – Are You Eligible?
This national database matches you with down payment and closing cost assistance programs based on your location, income, and loan type. It’s a great first step to see what you may qualify for before talking with a lender. - Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (IHCDA)
The IHCDA offers statewide programs such as First Place and Next Home, providing up to 6% down payment assistance for eligible Indiana buyers. Options vary depending on whether you’re a first-time or repeat buyer, with minimum credit scores typically starting around 640–660. - CrossCountry Mortgage – Down Payment Assistance
CrossCountry Mortgage outlines common DPA programs tied to FHA, VA, and Conventional loans, explaining typical down payment percentages, income limits, and grant structures. This is a solid overview of how assistance can work with your mortgage. - Local Eligibility Tool via MIBOR and Gretchen Szostak
Use this interactive form to see which Central Indiana down payment programs you might qualify for. Results are customized based on your income, household size, and property location — all tailored to the Indianapolis and Greenwood area.
Every buyer’s financial situation is unique, and the right program can make a big difference in your budget and monthly payment. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, relocating to Central Indiana, or purchasing your next home, I can help you connect with reputable lenders and determine which loan and down payment assistance options best fit your goals.
Reach out anytime at (317) 721-5310 or (317) 413-7825 or visit the Contact page to schedule a personalized buyer consultation. Let’s make your next move — and your down payment — work smarter for you.