US Paths To Buying Without Cash

With US median home prices at $403.2K, a typical mortgage down payment of ~3% to ~5% can mean saving ~$12K to ~$20K upfront.
Two government-backed paths can remove the down payment entirely: a rural housing loan and a veterans housing loan for veterans, service members, and spouses.
Homebuyer assistance programs can help with down payments or closing fees, often for first-time buyers under income limits, though some programs may require repayment.
Rent-to-own agreements let renters move toward ownership by leasing first, then applying part of rent toward a purchase, sometimes with higher rent or maintenance costs.
For buyers who do not fit traditional lending, owner financing can allow direct payment agreements with the seller instead of a mortgage lender.