Futures Home Assistance
FHA Downpayment Grants for Homebuyers
Futures Home Assistance is a non-profit charity group which offers a down payment gift up to 6% of the closing costs of a home purchased with an FHA loan. The application process for the Futures Home Assistance program includes the following steps:
- Find a participating seller.
- Make an offer with a pre-approved FHA home loan or with an existing FHA loan.
- The seller must agree to participate in the Futures Home Assistance program.
- Ask your loan officer to apply on your behalf for the Futures Home Assistance program.
If you have an approved FHA home loan, Futures Home Assistance should respond within 24 hours of application (or the next business day). You may be eligible for additional funds beyond the usual 6%. Ask your loan officer for additional information.
Down payment assistance programs usually require the seller to pay a fee to participate. The fee is a payment for services rendered and not a tax-deductible charitable contribution. Ask your loan officer for further information if you have questions.
Additional Information:
Elimination of Non-profit Down Payment Assistance
On July 30, 2008, President Bush signed H.R. 3221 - Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008.
Section 2113 of the bill prohibits seller-funded DPA (Down Payment Assistance) for loans backed by
the Federal Housing Administration. Prior to this bill, the seller could contribute up to 6% to the buyer to
cover either a down payment or closing costs on an FHA loan. The changes became effective October 1, 2008.
Since this program is no longer available, we recommend that you get pre-approved for a low down payment FHA home loan.
FHA LOAN QUESTION # 2 [ -more FHA questions- ]
Q: Is an older home a better value than a new one?
A: There isn't a definitive answer to this question. You should look at each home for its individual characteristics. Generally, older homes may be in more established neighborhoods, offer more ambiance, and have lower property tax rates. People who buy older homes, however, shouldn't mind maintaining their home and making some repairs. Newer homes tend to use more modern architecture and systems, are usually easier to maintain, and may be more energy-efficient. People who buy new homes often don't want to worry initially about upkeep and repairs.
First time home buyers purchasing a home with an FHA loan or going through a HUD-approved charitable agency can use their 2009 First Time Homebuyer's Tax Credit to make their downpayment.
Down payment assistance programs allowed the seller and charitable organizations to contribute towards the closing costs and down payment of FHA loans.
