Nevada Rural Housing (NRH) is launching a program aiming to help Nevada essential workers purchase a home.

The Rural Rocks $20k program opened on December 1 and offers a down payment of up to $20,000. It's available through the NRH's network of approved lending partners statewide.

According to officials, the program was developed through the Nevada Attainable Housing Act and Attainable Housing Fund, created by Assembly Bill 540 during the 2025 Nevada Legislative Session.

Officials say this program is similar to the Nevada Housing Division program, but Red Rocks $20k aims to serve the needs of rural homebuyers and communities.

According to NRH, their loans may offer more favorable interest rates for eligible borrowers in their rural service area.

To qualify for a loan, at least one borrower needs to be a Nevada resident for six months or longer, and first-time and repeat buyers are eligible.

The program aims to serve the essential workforce, including healthcare, education, public safety, and construction. The assistance can be applied toward a down payment and closing cost paired with a permanent interest rate reduction, or used solely for down payment and closing cost support, according to NRH.

According to NRH, the program does require you to have a minimum credit score of 640.

"The program also has household income limits that vary by county. Eligible properties include single-family homes, condos, townhomes, and manufactured homes that will serve as the buyer’s primary residence in all rural jurisdictions (including the rural parts of Clark and Washoe Counties)," according to officials.

NRH says the program funds are limited and reserved on a first-come, first served basis through approved lenders.

“Nevada’s essential workers show up for our rural communities every day,” said Bill Brewer, executive director of Nevada Rural Housing. “Because of this funding, we can show up for them in return, helping more families plant roots, build equity, and access the long-term stability that comes with homeownership.”

To learn more, visit their website.