Amazing news for homebuyers! The Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) is officially reopening its grant funding February 23rd, 2026. If you are currently house hunting or planning to buy soon, these funds can significantly lower your out-of-pocket costs.
FHLB offers three grant programs for qualifying homebuyers who can use extra assistance when buying their home.
First-Time Homebuyer Grant: $17,500
This program is specifically designed to help first-time buyers overcome the hurdle of initial costs. Qualified borrowers can use these funds toward their down payment or closing costs.
Key Requirements:
- First-Time Status: Must be a first-time homebuyer or have not owned a home in the last three years.
- Primary Residence: The home must be used as your primary residence.
- Income Limits: Household income must be at or below 80% of the Area Median Income Limit (AMI).
- Minimum Contribution: A $1,000 minimum contribution is required from the borrower.
Community Partners Grant: $20,000
We believe those who serve our communities deserve a place to call home. This grant is available to both first-time and repeat homebuyers in specific service-oriented professions.
Eligible Professions Including Any Employee, Active or Retired, from:
- Law Enforcement: Includes personnel from agencies administered by state or local government.
- Fire & Emergency Services: Including state or local government, both volunteer and career firefighters and other first responders (National Guard, Reservist, or Med Tech)
- Private or Public School: Teachers, administrators, and school support staff (including janitorial and office staff).
- Healthcare Workers: Accredited or state recognized medical or health care facility or certified, accredited or licensed health care worker.
- Military: Veterans, active-duty members, or surviving spouses.
Don’t see your specific title? If you are licensed professional or government employee in these sectors, you likely qualify! Reach out to us to confirm your eligibility.
Key Requirements:
- Income Limits: Household income must be at or below 80% of the Area Median Income Limit (AMI).
- Minimum Contribution: A $1,000 minimum contribution is required from the borrower.
Workforce Housing Plus+: $15,000
To combat rising home prices and inflation, this grant supports “middle-income” workers who might not qualify for traditional low-income assistance but still need a boost.
Requirements:
- Income Limits: Specifically for buyers between 80.01% and 120% of the Area Median Income (AMI) Limit.
- Borrower Contribution: A minimum of $1,000 from the borrower’s own funds is required.
- Primary Residence: Must be owner-occupied.
Why Choose an FHLB Grant?
Beyond the initial funding, these grants offer incredible flexibility:
- Loan Compatibility: Works with almost all loan types, including VA, USDA, FHA, and Conventional.
- Stackable Savings: In many cases, these can be combined with state-specific first-time homebuyer programs for even more savings.
- Versatile Use: Any excess grant funds can be applied toward increasing your down payment or buying down your interest rate to lower your monthly payment.
Don’t Wait! Apply Today.
Funds are limited and available on a first come, first served basis. Contact a Southern Trust Mortgage loan officer to determine your eligibility and secure yours today!
Additional requirements may apply for each program. Consult your loan officer to confirm your eligibility.
