Align Lending

FOR HOME BUYERS

BorrowSmart Access™: Down Payment Help for First-Time Buyers

BorrowSmart Access™ is designed to help eligible first-time homebuyers bridge the gap to homeownership by providing down payment assistance and reduced mortgage insurance. Perfect for buyers in select metro areas, this program combines affordability and flexibility to make getting into your first home easier than ever.

A home loan that makes home more affordable.

Down Payment Help

Receive assistance toward your 3% down payment.

Lower Monthly Payment

Reduced mortgage insurance premiums and competitive interest rates.

Education and Support

Includes a free homebuyer education course.

Stackable Benefits

Can be combined with other assistance programs.

Guidelines for this Loan

If your details are close to these guidelines, we encourage you to apply or contact us. Even if you don’t qualify for an adjustable-rate mortgage, we could have other options for you.

First Time Buyer

Location

Credit Score

Income Limits

Estimate and Explore

Calculators are a great way to learn and see what’s possible.

Down Payment Calculator

Learn how much cash you need to buy the home in your mind.

Comparing BorrowSmart Access

Everyone’s situation is different. What might be right for one person might not be right for you. Apply or contact us – it’s the best way to explore your unique options.

BorrowSmart Access
One+ By Rocket Mortgage®
HomeReady® & Home Possible®
Income Cap
Yes
Yes
Yes
Credit Towards Upfront Costs
Up To $3,000
Up To $7,000
Up To $3,500
Mortgage Insurance
Standard Pricing
Reduced Pricing
Reduced Pricing
BorrowSmart Access
One+ By Rocket Mortgage®
HomeReady® & Home Possible®
Income Cap
Yes
Yes
Yes
Credit Towards Upfront Costs
Up To $3,000
Up To $7,000
Up To $3,500
Mortgage Insurance
Standard Pricing
Reduced Pricing
Reduced Pricing

BorrowSmart Access

Income Cap: Yes

Credit Towards Upfront Costs: Up To $3,000

Mortgage Insurance: Standard Pricing

Learn More

One+ By Rocket Mortgage®

Income Cap: Yes

Credit Towards Upfront Costs: Up To $7,000

Mortgage Insurance: Reduced Pricing

Learn More

HomeReady® & Home Possible®

Income Cap: Yes

Credit Towards Upfront Costs: Up To $3,500

Mortgage Insurance: Reduced Pricing

Learn More

Get More In-Depth Details

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The Ultimate Playbook: 15 Game-Changing Tips Every First-Time Home Buyer Needs to Know Stepping into the world of homeownership is...

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Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to questions about this loan we heard from people like you during research.

Assistance varies by location and borrower eligibility, but can range from $1,000 to $2,500 or more.

Income must generally be below 80%–100% of the Area Median Income (AMI), depending on the county. Ask a loan advisor to confirm your eligibility.

Yes! BorrowSmart Access™ can be layered with other grants, credits, or seller/lender-paid contributions.

Most assistance provided through BorrowSmart Access™ is a non-repayable grant or forgivable after a set period—verify specifics with your lender.

Yes, and it includes completing a free homebuyer education course and submitting proof of eligibility.

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