How to Get a First Time Home Buyers Grant

You want to buy your first home, but don't have that critical down payment that's necessary to do so. Don't despair—the government offers up to $15,000 through a first-time home buyers grant. This so-called free money is a great way for many first-time home buyers to realize their dream of owning a home. With the help of a grant, you can move into your dream house now.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Locate the home you wish to buy. Apply for a mortgage with a bank or mortgage company. You can't apply for a grant until you have secured a lending institution.

2. Check funding programs available in your state. Visit the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) website for a list of available programs in your area. The types of programs and qualifications differ from state to state.

3. Decide which program is best for you that can give you the most assistance. Make sure there's funding still available for that particular program, as many programs run out of funds months before another round of funding begins.

4. Download the application for the first-time home buyers grant program you want from the HUD website, or visit a local office for an application. Complete the application, and attach any other required documentation. Ask your lender to assist you, if necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• Some programs require you to submit a grant application through your lending institution only.
• Don't delay in submitting your application. Hundreds of people may be submitting to the same grant you are. Delaying may cause you to lose a chance at getting a grant.
• Some grant programs may require you to repay the amount granted.

Resources

• Learn more about federal home buyer grant programs here.
• Find out about state-by-state first time home buyer grant programs here.

[icyorchid]

on 4/26/2008 Thanks we are looking to purchase a house this summer. This info was very helpful to me.