Are there special programs for teachers buying a home?

YES, but.... There are the "Next Door" programs, like "Teacher Next Door", and "Police Officer next Door". I've reviewed many of the programs, and unfortunately, most have some sort of smoke and mirrors problems. For example, a program may claim a grant or some other assistance, but more often than not, the old buyer beware, and nothing is for free come into play, and they are cranking your interest rate up significantly to pay for the "free" item. More often than not, you end up paying way more in interest over time than you ever got in benefit today. They are not all the same, so be sure to really dig in to the details, and in my opinion, stick to the "normal" programs. I lend in MN WI IA ND SD, and can be found at JoeMetzler.com - NMLS 274132