StatewiseFinance

Minnesota offers up to $17,000 in Start Up down payment assistance, plus an automatic homestead exclusion that phases out above $517,200 in home value.

Minnesota Start Up vs. VA Loan 2026 — Which Saves Minnesota Veterans More? | StatewiseFinance Updated: June 2026 | Sources: MNHousing.gov · VA.gov · Veterans United · Zillow · MN Dept. of Revenue Minnesota Start Up vs. VA Loan (2026) Which program saves Minnesota veterans more — and when should you stack both? Minnesota veterans have two primary paths: Minnesota Housing's Start Up program (up to $14,000 in DPA, 6.375% FHA rate) or the federal VA loan (5.75%, $0 down, no monthly mortgage insurance). In most cases, the best answer is to use both together. This guide runs the real numbers with verified June 2026 rates and official program data. This is Post 2 of 2 in the Minnesota Hero Loan Series. Read Post 1 for the complete overview of MN Housing programs, DPA loan types, city programs, and eligibility before comparing these options. Key fact Minnesota veterans often don't know: Minnesota does not have a state-specific VA loan program (unl...

Minnesota heroes have real down payment assistance and tax credit options available right now — here's what actually works today, and two outdated programs to stop chasing.