IFA FirstHome Program & Down Payment Assistance
Denison homebuyers can take advantage of the Iowa Finance Authority’s down payment assistance through FirstHome. This includes a **$2,500 grant** to immediately offset out-of-pocket expenses:contentReference[oaicite:135]{index=135} and a **second mortgage loan up to 5%** of the home price for the down payment gap:contentReference[oaicite:136]{index=136}. The second loan is 0% interest with deferred payment, making homeownership much more accessible by effectively acting as part of the buyer’s down payment. Buyers must qualify as first-time homeowners (or qualify under special exemptions), meet income guidelines for Crawford County, and choose a home within IFA’s price range. Partner lenders in western Iowa can help Denison buyers combine this with favorable loan products (like FHA or VA) to achieve minimal upfront costs.
Estimated assistance: $2,500
Down payment use: May apply
Official source