Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but navigating the costs of down payments and closing costs can be overwhelming. That’s where this First-Time Homebuyer Grant, administered by the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB), can help! With up to $15,000 in assistance available, you could take a major step toward owning your first home. For qualification, schedule an appointment by connecting with any one of our lenders below or apply online today!

*If you would like to apply in person or via paper application, please contact a Marion County Bank lender.

Meet Our Lenders Apply Now Grant Video

How the Grant Works

This grant is designed to assist first-time homebuyers by covering part of their down payment and closing costs. Since these funds are limited, a completed application and signed purchase agreement is required to reserve your funds.

What You Need to Know

  • Maximum Grant Amount: $15,000 per household
  • Usage: Can be applied toward down payment and closing costs
  • Eligibility: Must be a first-time homebuyer or have not owned a home in the last three years
  • Income-Based: We’ll review your income to determine eligibility
  • Max Purchase Price: $510,000
  • Education Requirement: Completion of an online First-Time Homebuyer Course
  • Application Process: Requires a signed Purchase Agreement to reserve funds

Application Process

To apply for the grant, borrowers must complete a loan application and have a signed purchase agreement in place. Once those steps are completed, your loan officer will submit the grant application on your behalf.

Don’t Miss Out on This Opportunity!

Grant funds are available on a first-come, first-served basis and may run out throughout the year. If you’re ready to take the next step, schedule an appointment by connecting with any one of our lenders below, or apply online today!

Meet Our Lenders Apply Now

A Lender's Perspective & Additional Resources

Diane Roose, Sr. Vice President, Residential Loans shares her thoughts on this grant program.

"This is such an incredible opportunity for first-time homebuyers! Not only does this grant help make homeownership more accessible by covering down payment and closing costs, but it also allows you to start building equity sooner. Owning a home is one of the best ways to invest in your future, and we’re thrilled to help you take that first step!"

For additional educational resources and support, check out our First-Time Homebuyer Packet. This packet, along with your mortgage loan officer, will help you understand the process, find the right loan and provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions in the home buying process and ultimately achieve your home buying goals. 

First-Time Homebuyer Packet

Real (Estate) Talk Video: First time Homebuyers & Grant Funds

Click to watch the video.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I have to repay the grant?

If you sell your home after five years, you won’t need to repay anything. If you sell before five years, a prorated portion of the grant may need to be repaid from the sale proceeds.

Are other grant funds available?

Yes! Other programs such as IFA, Military, and HomeReady grants may also be available to eligible buyers.

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Meet Our Lenders

Pella Office

Danielle Benge

Danielle Benge

Residential Loan Officer

NMLS: 2532282

Divisions: Lending, Mortgage Lending, Personal Lending

Location: Pella Office

Phone: (641) 628-2191

Contact Me
Josh Nelson

Josh Nelson

Loan Officer

NMLS: 2264210

Divisions: Lending, Mortgage Lending, Personal Lending

Location: Pella Office

Phone: (641) 628-2191

Contact Me
Diane Roose

Diane Roose

Sr. Vice President, Residential Loans

NMLS: 508137

Divisions: Lending, Mortgage Lending

Location: Pella Office

Phone: (641) 628-2191

Contact Me

Knoxville Office

Vanessa Szlachetka

Vanessa Szlachetka

Assistant Vice President, Residential Loan Officer

NMLS: 410604

Divisions: Lending, Mortgage Lending, Personal Lending

Location: Knoxville Office

Phone: (641) 828-8000

Contact Me