Marion County Bank
Updated 7:25 AM CDT, Thu April 3, 2025
Published Under: Lending
![Home Starts Here: $15,000 First-Time Homebuyer Grant[Draft]](/uploads/blog/771e3f36cf5972cc3a04b0c06681980b.png)
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.
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
- 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!
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.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are there restrictions on the purchase price?
No, if you qualify for mortgage financing and meet income requirements, you are eligible to receive grant funds.
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.
Equal Housing Lender | Member FDIC
Learn More
- Home Starts Here: Blog & Video
- Home Loan Options at Marion County Bank
- Ask the Expert: Diane Roose | Home Loan Expert
- Community Support
- Careers at Marion County Bank
Meet Our Lenders
Pella Office

Danielle Benge
Residential Loan Officer
NMLS: 2532282
Divisions: Lending, Mortgage Lending, Personal Lending
Location: Pella Office
Phone: (641) 628-2191

Josh Nelson
Loan Officer
NMLS: 2264210
Divisions: Lending, Mortgage Lending, Personal Lending
Location: Pella Office
Phone: (641) 628-2191

Diane Roose
Sr. Vice President, Residential Loans
NMLS: 508137
Divisions: Lending, Mortgage Lending
Location: Pella Office
Phone: (641) 628-2191
Knoxville Office

Vanessa Szlachetka
Assistant Vice President, Residential Loan Officer
NMLS: 410604
Divisions: Lending, Mortgage Lending, Personal Lending
Location: Knoxville Office
Phone: (641) 828-8000
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