First Front Door Grant Program

The First Front Door Grant Program: Empowering Homeownership in Delaware, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia

The Federal Loan Bank of Pittsburgh's First Front Door Grant Program is a beacon of financial assistance for qualified first-time homebuyers. This initiative aims to alleviate the burden of closing costs and provide down payment assistance, fostering the dream of homeownership for those seeking eligible primary residences.

Key Features of the First Front Door Program:

Donations Matching:

The First Front Door program amplifies the impact of homebuyers' contributions by matching donations at an impressive three-to-one ratio. For every dollar you contribute, the program adds a generous grant of $3, up to a maximum of $5,000. This unique feature enhances the affordability of homeownership.

Income Limits:

Participants must meet the requirements of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). To qualify, household income must be at or below 80% of the area median income. HUD may update these limits, and the bank adheres to the latest published guidelines, ensuring accurate income calculations.

Eligibility Criteria for First-Time Homebuyers:

To qualify as first-time homebuyers, individuals must not have owned a primary residence in the past three years. This includes those who have not owned a single-family home during this period. Joint buyers are eligible if at least one has not owned a primary residence in the last three years. Even those separated but not divorced from a spouse may qualify for lender consultation.

Eligible Properties:

The program supports various property types, including single-family homes, townhouses (approved by the loan program), condos (approved by the loan program), and modular houses. Additionally, units permanently attached to a specific location may qualify. Mobile homes, campers, and vehicles are ineligible, and the program is unavailable for duplexes or other investment properties.

Counseling Requirements:

Homebuyers must undergo a comprehensive counseling program covering predatory lending. Participants in this four-hour counseling session receive preparation for the responsibilities of homeownership from qualified sources. At least one adult resident homebuyer must complete the counseling.

Geographical Availability:

The First Front Door program operates through participating lenders in Delaware, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.

Application Process:

Interested individuals should initiate financing by consulting a participating lender. Only Federal Home Loan Bank members of Pittsburgh can provide this funding. The approved lender will guide applicants through the eligibility application, a crucial step that must be completed before a home purchase.

Limited Funding:

Successful grant recipients have a six-month window to utilize the funds, emphasizing the importance of timely action.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the First Front Door Grant Program is a catalyst for realizing the dream of homeownership, offering substantial financial assistance to first-time homebuyers. By navigating this program, individuals can enhance their home-buying experience, secure favorable financing terms, and achieve financial security in the long run. As grants are subject to availability, prospective homebuyers are encouraged to explore this opportunity promptly, ensuring they maximize the benefits of this impactful initiative.

SOURCE:
https://www.fhlb-pgh.com/files/resources/FFD-Product-Manual-2022.pdf