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First-Time Homebuyer Programs in Racine, WI

Population 77,908 · Updated November 2026

Estimated Median Home Price

$200,000

Affordable

Based on Wisconsin market data and city size. Actual prices vary by neighborhood.

Affordability Snapshot

Est. Monthly Payment
$1,595/mo

P&I $1,220 + Tax $308 + Ins $67

Property Tax Rate
1.85%

$3,700/yr in Wisconsin

FHA Loan Limit
$498K

Standard limit in Wisconsin

Down Payment Breakdown

For a $200,000 home in Racine:

FHA Loan (3.5% down)

Min. 580 credit score

$7,000

Conventional (5% down)

Min. 620 credit score

$10,000

VA / USDA (0% down)

Veterans / eligible rural areas

$0

Plus closing costs of $4,000 - $10,000 (2-5%)

Wisconsin Homebuyer Programs

WHEDA Advantage

Below-Market Rate Mortgage + DPA
Below-market rate + Capital Access DPA

Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority offers below-market rate mortgages with up to 6% of the purchase price in DPA as a second mortgage.

Federal Loan Programs

ProgramDown PaymentCredit ScoreEligibility
FHA3.5%580+ (3.5%) or 500+ (10%)All buyers
Conventional3-5%620+All buyers
VA0%No minimum (most lenders want 620+)Veterans, active military, surviving spouses
USDA0%640+ (most lenders)Eligible rural/suburban areas, income limits

FHA loan limit in Wisconsin: $498,257. Rates and requirements as of 2026.

7 Steps to Buying Your First Home in Racine

1

Check your credit score

FHA requires 580+ for 3.5% down; conventional needs 620+. Free annual reports at AnnualCreditReport.com. Racine has 1 HUD-approved counseling agencies that offer free credit counseling.

2

Get pre-approved (not just pre-qualified)

Pre-approval involves a full credit check, income verification, and asset documentation. It tells sellers you are a serious buyer with confirmed financing. Pre-qualification is just an informal estimate.

3

Apply for Wisconsin assistance programs

Wisconsin offers 1 homebuyer program that can reduce your down payment or closing costs. Apply before you start house-hunting — some programs take 2-4 weeks to process.

4

Find a buyer's agent

A buyer's agent represents your interests and is typically paid by the seller. Look for agents who know the Racine market and have experience with first-time buyers and DPA programs.

5

House hunt with your budget

With a median price of $200,000 in Racine, your total monthly housing cost would be approximately $1,595/month. Most lenders recommend keeping housing costs below 28% of gross income.

6

Make an offer and get an inspection

Your agent helps structure the offer. Always get a home inspection ($300-$500) — it can reveal costly problems. In competitive markets, resist pressure to waive the inspection contingency.

7

Close on your home

Closing typically takes 30-45 days after an accepted offer. Budget $4,000-$10,000 for closing costs. Review all documents carefully at closing — you have 3 days to review the Closing Disclosure before signing.

HUD-Approved Housing Counselors in Racine

Approximately 1 agencies offer free homebuyer education and credit counseling

First-Time Homebuyer Facts

Median Buyer Age

36 years

National Association of Realtors, 2025

Avg. Down Payment

8%

National Association of Realtors, 2025

Use DPA Programs

40% of first-time buyers

National Association of Realtors, 2024

Closing Costs

2-5% of purchase price

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

Frequently Asked Questions About Buying in Racine

What first-time homebuyer programs are available in Racine, WI?
Wisconsin offers 1 state-level homebuyer assistance program: WHEDA Advantage. In addition, federal programs including FHA (3.5% down), VA (0% down for veterans), and USDA (0% down in eligible rural areas) are available to Racine buyers.
How much do I need for a down payment on a home in Racine?
Based on the estimated median home price of $200,000 in Racine: an FHA loan requires $7,000 (3.5%), a conventional loan requires $10,000 (5%), and VA/USDA loans require $0 down. About 40% of first-time buyers use down payment assistance programs to reduce these amounts.
What is the estimated monthly mortgage payment in Racine?
For the estimated median home price of $200,000 in Racine with an FHA loan (3.5% down, 6.5% interest rate, 30-year term), the estimated principal and interest payment is approximately $1,220/month. Add property taxes (1.85% in Wisconsin), homeowner's insurance, and mortgage insurance for the full monthly cost.
What credit score do I need to buy a home in Racine?
FHA loans require a minimum 580 credit score for the 3.5% down payment option (or 500 with 10% down). Conventional loans typically require 620 or higher. Higher scores qualify for better interest rates. Free credit counseling is available through the 1 HUD-approved housing counseling agencies in the Racine area.
What are closing costs for buying a home in Racine, WI?
Closing costs in Racine typically range from $4,000 to $10,000 (2-5% of the purchase price). These include lender fees, title insurance, appraisal, recording fees, and prepaid property taxes. Some Wisconsin DPA programs also cover closing costs.

Homebuyer Programs in Other Wisconsin Cities

Milwaukee$325,000
Moderate
Madison$270,000
Moderate
Green Bay$295,000
Moderate
Kenosha$195,000
Affordable
Appleton$225,000
Affordable
Eau Claire$205,000
Affordable
Waukesha$230,000
Affordable
Oshkosh$245,000
Affordable
Back to Racine overviewAll homebuyer programsRacine safety data

Home prices are population-based estimates and may not reflect current market conditions. Program details, eligibility requirements, and amounts are approximate and subject to change. Contact your state housing finance agency or a HUD-approved counselor for current information. This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.

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