State Buyer Guide
Down payment assistance, Arkansas housing programs, closing cost estimates, and what to know before buying — including from FSBO sellers.
FSBO sellers take pre-approved buyers seriously. LendingTree lets you compare rates from 200+ lenders in minutes — for free.
Affiliate link — we earn a commission at no cost to you. Disclosure
The Arkansas Development Finance Authority (ADFA) is your primary source for below-market mortgage rates and down payment assistance in Arkansas. Programs are available through approved lenders — not directly through the HFA.
30-year fixed-rate mortgages at below-market rates for first-time buyers.
Second mortgage for down payment and closing costs.
Personalized mortgage rates in 3 minutes
See real rates from multiple lenders with one soft credit pull. Credible pays up to $240 per funded loan — which means they have every reason to find you the best rate.
Compare Mortgage Rates →On a $195,000 home: approximately $4,485
Arkansas charges a real property transfer tax of $3.30 per $1,000, typically split equally between buyer and seller, so buyers pay roughly 0.165% of the purchase price.
Attorney presence is required at closings in Arkansas. Budget $300–$600 for the attorney fee.
Find licensed home inspectors near you
HomeAdvisor instantly matches you with licensed, background-checked home inspectors in your area. Read real reviews, compare quotes, and book online.
Find an Inspector →As an attorney-closing state, Arkansas requires a licensed real estate attorney to conduct your closing. You'll also want one to review your purchase agreement.
Nolo has been the go-to legal resource for DIY buyers since 1971. Their real estate guides explain purchase agreements, contingencies, and closing in language anyone can understand.
Browse Legal Guides →Get a real estate attorney to review your purchase agreement or help you draft an offer letter — often for a fraction of traditional legal fees.
Get Legal Help →Download state-specific purchase agreements, addenda, and disclosure forms — written by attorneys, ready to use in your state.
Browse Real Estate Forms →Arkansas first-time buyers can access programs through the Arkansas Development Finance Authority (ADFA) (https://www.arkansas.gov/adfa/), including the ADFA Move-Up Loan Program (Below-market rate typically 0.25–0.75% below current market rates) and the ADFA Down Payment Assistance (Up to $15,000 as a 10-year second mortgage at 5% interest). Federal programs like FHA loans (3.5% down) and USDA loans (0% down in eligible areas) are also available.
Closing costs in Arkansas typically run 2.3% of the purchase price. Transfer tax: 0.33% (split buyer/seller). Arkansas charges a real property transfer tax of $3.30 per $1,000, typically split equally between buyer and seller, so buyers pay roughly 0.165% of the purchase price.
Attorney presence is required at closings in Arkansas. Budget $300–$600 for the attorney fee.
The median home price in Arkansas is approximately $195,000. Property taxes average 0.62% of assessed value annually.
Ready to start the process?