Borrowers who would like to participate in the First-Time Homebuyer Program, the Target Area Loan Program, or the Ohio Heroes Program but can't afford the minimum down payment may qualify for this special grant for up to 2.5 percent of the home's purchase price. The grant does not have to be paid back, but acceptance does mean that the interest rate on the first mortgage will increase by 0.5 percent.

First-time homebuyers who meet income and credit requirements may qualify for attractive mortgage terms through this program. Eligible borrowers are guaranteed 30-year fixed-rate mortgages. Income and purchase price limits change depending on the location of the property.

We are approved by the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to provide counseling, education and advice in housing issues to new and existing homeowners.

Those who qualify for the First-Time Homebuyer Program or the Ohio Heroes Program may also be eligible for help with the up-front costs of purchasing a home. Assistance is given in the form of a second mortgage which will be fixed at 1 percent higher than the rate on the first mortgage. Interest does not accrue until August 1, 2010, in anticipation of the homebuyer also qualifying for the federal tax credit for first-time homebuyers. Up to 3 percent of the purchase price of the home is available to each qualifying borrower.

Full-time teachers, police officers, firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, military personnel (active or veteran), and healthcare workers who are also first-time homebuyers may be eligible for special loan terms under this program. Qualifying homebuyers will be guaranteed 30-year fixed-rate mortgages with interest rates at 0.25 percent lower than those offered by the basic First-Time Homebuyer program. Income and purchase price limits apply.

These loans are available to any eligible homebuyer who wishes to purchase a home in one of several economically distressed areas in Ohio. The terms of each loan are the same as those offered to first-time homebuyers. Income and purchase price limits apply.