Section 184 Native American Loans Support First-Time Buyers

The chart shows the strong alignment of HUD's Section 184 loan program with the needs of first-time homebuyers (FTHBs) in Native American communities. Two-thirds of Section 184 purchase loans went to FTHBs 2025 YTD through October.

This insight underscores the program’s critical role in expanding homeownership among tribal populations who often face unique access barriers to conventional mortgage credit.

For mortgage lenders and secondary market stakeholders, this trend signals a highly mission-aligned opportunity to serve a growing and underserved segment. Lenders seeking to expand CRA-eligible activity, reduce portfolio risk through federal guarantees, or deepen impact in Native American communities should consider strategic participation in the Section 184 program.

Additionally, the concentration of FTHBs implies that loan servicing, borrower education, and counseling efforts may need to be tailored to new homeowners, reinforcing the need for strong origination and post-close borrower support.