State Buyer Guide
Down payment assistance, Ohio housing programs, closing cost estimates, and what to know before buying — including from FSBO sellers.
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The Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) is your primary source for below-market mortgage rates and down payment assistance in Ohio. Programs are available through approved lenders — not directly through the HFA.
Ohio Housing Finance Agency DPA with a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage.
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Compare Mortgage Rates →On a $225,000 home: approximately $5,625
Ohio has no state real estate transfer tax. Counties charge a conveyance fee that varies — typically $1–$4 per $1,000 of sale price, paid by the seller but sometimes negotiated.
Ohio is a title-company closing 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 Ohio 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 →Ohio first-time buyers can access programs through the Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) (https://ohiohome.org/), including the OHFA Your Choice! Down Payment Assistance (2.5% or 5% of purchase price — forgiven after 7 years) and the OHFA Ohio Heroes (Rate discount of 0.25% plus access to DPA programs). Federal programs like FHA loans (3.5% down) and USDA loans (0% down in eligible areas) are also available.
Closing costs in Ohio typically run 2.5% of the purchase price. Transfer tax: Conveyance fee only (~$1–$4 per $1,000). Ohio has no state real estate transfer tax. Counties charge a conveyance fee that varies — typically $1–$4 per $1,000 of sale price, paid by the seller but sometimes negotiated.
Ohio is a title-company closing 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 Ohio is approximately $225,000. Property taxes average 1.59% of assessed value annually.
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