The Section 184 Loan is a powerful tool for Native American homebuyers.
→Skip to the Section 184 Loan Qualification Infographic.
It requires just 2.25% down and is more affordable monthly than FHA. You can also use it to buy on Tribal Trust land.
Here’s what it takes to be eligible.
Speak with a lender to see if you can buy a home.
Section 184 Loan eligibility
To be eligible for the program, first and foremost, you have to be an enrolled member in a federally-recognized American Indian Tribe or Alaska Native Village. Have your valid and current Tribal ID ready to show your lender.
Additionally, you must meet the following requirements:
- Your Tribe must be approved for the program by HUD
- You are financing a primary residence
- The home is in an approved state or county
- You can obtain a lease from the Tribe if buying on Tribal trust land
Request a call from a lender to see if you can be approved.
Next step: See if you qualify for the loan
If it appears that you are eligible, the next step is to see if you qualify for the loan. Here are general standards:
- Have enough assets or down payment assistance to cover the 2.25% down payment plus closing costs
- Have decent credit with no current unpaid collections or judgments within the last 12 months
- Earn enough income to support the payment
- Financing a 1-4 unit house or 1-unit manufactured home
- You are buying, refinancing, renovating, or building a home. Or, you can place a manufactured home on a permanent foundation
Get a pre-approval and start looking for a home
If you think you meet eligibility and qualification criteria, or even if you’re not sure, the next step is to get pre-approved for the loan.
Contact a Section 184 lender that can review your situation and, if approved, issue a pre-approval.
A pre-approval is required to make an offer on a home. The seller needs to know you can go through with the purchase. And, a real estate agent typically won’t even show you a home without a pre-approval in-hand.
That’s why it’s wise to contact a lender early so you’re ready when you find the right home.
Speak with a lender to start your pre-approval.
Section 184 Loan Eligibility: The key to homeownership
Surprisingly, not many Native American homebuyers have heard of Section 184. It’s a much better program than FHA and should be the first loan you consider if you’re eligible.
Sure, compare it to other loan types, but it’s usually the best for eligible buyers.
Contact a lender and see if you can buy a home. You might be surprised at what you can buy.
