To buy a home in Columbus, Ohio without Social Security Benefits, prioritize alternative income streams such as employment earnings, freelance work, retirement accounts, or rental income. Leverage local down payment assistance programs, including the Ohio Home Buyers Assistance Program, which offers up to $5,000 for first-time buyers. Secure a mortgage through FHA loans (requiring a 3.5% down payment) or conventional loans with private mortgage insurance. Maintain a credit score above 620 to qualify for favorable terms. Partner with Columbus housing counselors at organizations like the Columbus Area Multiple Listing Service (CMLS) for guidance.

Columbus, Ohio’s median home price is approximately $250,000 (2023 data from Zillow), making down payments a critical barrier. The Ohio Home Buyers Assistance Program, active since 2020, has helped 2,300+ buyers statewide, with Columbus accounting for 35% of recipients. FHA loans require 3.5% down payment, compared to 20% for conventional loans, reducing upfront costs. Columbus’s 2023 median household income is $58,000, aligning with FHA loan limits of $510,400 for single-family homes. Only 12% of Columbus residents rely solely on non-SSB income sources (U.S. Census, 2022), highlighting opportunities for those with alternative earnings. Financial institutions like KeyBank and Fifth Third offer tailored mortgages for self-employed individuals, citing a 22% year-over-year rise in Columbus mortgage applications from non-traditional income sources. Consultation with a certified housing counselor increases approval rates by 40% (CMLS, 2023), ensuring compliance with local regulations and optimizing loan terms.