Can I get down payment assistance if I'm not technically a first-time buyer?

Often yes. Many programs define first-time buyer as someone who hasn't owned a primary residence in the past three years, so if you previously owned but have been renting, you may requalify. Beyond that, plenty of state and local down payment assistance programs have no first-time requirement at all — they target income limits, specific professions like teachers or first responders, or particular neighborhoods. Assistance comes as grants, forgivable loans, or deferred second mortgages. Availability and rules vary by state housing finance agency, so check yours directly. Use wealthserene.com/tools/loan-program-finder to surface programs you might qualify for based on your income and location rather than assuming you're ineligible.