State Buyer Guide
Down payment assistance, Missouri housing programs, closing cost estimates, and what to know before buying — including from FSBO sellers.
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The Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC) is your primary source for below-market mortgage rates and down payment assistance in Missouri. Programs are available through approved lenders — not directly through the HFA.
Competitive 30-year fixed-rate mortgages for first-time buyers.
DPA second mortgage paired with MHDC First Place Loan.
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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 $235,000 home: approximately $4,935
Missouri has no state real estate transfer tax, which helps keep closing costs low for buyers.
Missouri is a title-company state. An attorney is not required, though many buyers in FSBO transactions choose to hire one for purchase agreement review.
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Find an Inspector →While Missouri doesn't require an attorney at closing, FSBO buyers should strongly consider having one review the purchase agreement and title work.
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 →Missouri first-time buyers can access programs through the Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC) (https://mohousing.com/), including the MHDC First Place Loan (Below-market rate plus access to Cash Assistance Loan for DPA) and the MHDC Cash Assistance Loan (4% of loan amount as a 10-year second at 0% interest). Federal programs like FHA loans (3.5% down) and USDA loans (0% down in eligible areas) are also available.
Closing costs in Missouri typically run 2.1% of the purchase price. Transfer tax: None. Missouri has no state real estate transfer tax, which helps keep closing costs low for buyers.
Missouri is a title-company state. An attorney is not required, though many buyers in FSBO transactions choose to hire one for purchase agreement review.
The median home price in Missouri is approximately $235,000. Property taxes average 0.97% of assessed value annually.
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