Before 59 and 1/2, Can I Use an IRA (without penalty) to Buy a House?

Subject to certain requirements, yes.“[1] But not necessarily without tax.[2]

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[1]See http://www.irs.gov/publications/p590/ch01.html.

[2]See http://www.irs.gov/publications/p590/ch02.html#en_US_2012_publink1000231057