First-Time Home BuyerPrograms in Michigan
Jim Shaffer & Associates helps Michigan first-time buyers access MSHDA down payment assistance, FHA loans, and first-time buyer grant programs across Oakland, Macomb, and Wayne Counties.
Check Your First-Time Buyer Eligibility
Free, no-obligation consultation. Find out which MSHDA, FHA, or grant programs you qualify for.
Results That Speak for Themselves
Since 1999, we've helped thousands of families across Oakland, Macomb, and Wayne Counties achieve their real estate goals.
#1 in Oakland County
Ranked the top real estate team in Oakland County by transaction volume and sales.
51-Agent Team
Specialized agents for buyers, sellers, investors, and commercial real estate.
850+ Annual Sales
Closing over 850 transactions each year with a proven, stress-free process.
25+ Years Trusted
Serving Metro Detroit since 1999. Recognized by RealTrends and Hour Detroit.
Michigan First-Time Buyer Programs & Down Payment Assistance
Many Metro Detroit buyers qualify for programs that significantly reduce upfront costs. Our agents will help you identify and apply for every program you're eligible for.
MSHDA Down Payment Assistance
Michigan State Housing Development Authority offers up to $10,000 in down payment assistance for eligible first-time buyers across Michigan, including Metro Detroit.
FHA Loan Programs
FHA loans allow first-time buyers to purchase with as little as 3.5% down and more flexible credit requirements — one of the most popular paths for buyers in Oakland County.
First-Time Buyer Grants
Federal and state grant programs, including MSHDA Step Forward DPA and local city programs, can provide additional assistance that doesn't need to be repaid.
USDA Rural Development Loans
Zero-down mortgage options for eligible buyers in qualifying areas of Macomb and Wayne Counties — our agents know which neighborhoods qualify.
Conventional 97 / 3% Down
Fannie Mae HomeReady and Freddie Mac Home Possible programs let qualified first-time buyers purchase with just 3% down and reduced mortgage insurance.
Local & City-Specific Programs
Detroit, Pontiac, Warren, and other Metro Detroit municipalities offer additional assistance for buyers purchasing within city limits. Ask us what's available in your target area.
No obligation. Takes less than 2 minutes.
Three Steps to Your First Home
Check Your Eligibility
Fill out the form and we'll review which MSHDA, FHA, grant, and down payment assistance programs you qualify for — at no cost.
Get Pre-Approved
We connect you with trusted Michigan lenders who specialize in first-time buyer programs and can get you pre-approved quickly.
Find & Close Your Home
Your dedicated JSA buyer's agent handles everything — home search, offer strategy, negotiations, and closing — so you can focus on moving in.
First-Time Buyer Services in Metro Detroit
First-Time Home Buying
- MSHDA down payment assistance — up to $10,000
- FHA loan pre-approval with preferred lenders
- First-time buyer grant program qualification
- Expert negotiation to get you the best deal
- Home search across 74+ Metro Detroit communities
Why First-Time Buyers Choose JSA
- #1 real estate team in Oakland County, MI
- 850+ home transactions closed annually
- 25+ years serving Metro Detroit first-time buyers
- Dedicated buyer's agents — not dual agency
- 2,700+ five-star Google reviews
Thousands of Happy Homeowners
With 2,700+ Google reviews and a perfect 5-star rating, our clients' success speaks for itself.
“As a first-time buyer I had no idea about MSHDA or down payment assistance programs. My JSA agent walked me through every option, got me pre-approved, and helped me close with less out of pocket than I thought possible.”
Marcus T.
Oakland County, MI
“Jim's team helped us qualify for a first-time buyer grant program we didn't even know existed. They handled everything from the FHA pre-approval to closing. We are in our dream home in Ferndale!”
Sarah M.
Ferndale, MI
“We were nervous about buying our first home in Metro Detroit. JSA explained all of our loan options — including MSHDA down payment assistance — and made the whole process stress-free.”
David & Lisa K.
Royal Oak, MI
Proudly Serving Metro Detroit
From Oakland to Wayne and Macomb Counties, our team knows every neighborhood.
We know where first-time buyers succeed
First-time buyer program eligibility often depends on city limits and county lines. JSA agents know which MSHDA, FHA, and grant programs apply in every Metro Detroit neighborhood — so you don't leave money on the table.
...and all surrounding communities in Oakland, Macomb, and Wayne Counties.
Find Out Which First-Time Buyer Programs You Qualify For
Our first-time buyer specialists will review your situation and identify every MSHDA, FHA, and grant program available to you — free, no obligation.
248-834-3030
Call us for immediate assistance
Metro Detroit, Michigan
Oakland, Macomb & Wayne Counties
Check Your First-Time Buyer Eligibility
Free, no obligation. We'll identify every program you qualify for.