You Might Qualify for a First-Time Homebuyer Grant

If you’re a first-time homebuyer, seeing how much the down payment and closing costs add up to can leave you surprised, to say the least. Pre-qualified, first-time homebuyers that use Diamond Credit Union might have additional resources to help with costs, depending on funding and qualifications.

First-Time Homebuyer Grants

There are several first-time homebuyer grant options for you. Diamond specifically partners with First Front Door (FFD),* a Federal Home Loan Bank (FHL Bank) homebuyer grant program. The FFD is funded through FHLBank of Pittsburgh and is typically available starting in the Spring of each year. It is available until the funds are exhausted.

How to Apply for a First-Time Homebuyer Grant

If you are a first-time homebuyer using Diamond for your mortgage, the Mortgage Team will collect your information and apply for the grant to see if you qualify. The FFD program sets the guidelines for who qualifies for the grant.

The initial qualification is that you haven’t owned a single-family home used as your primary residence within the last three years. The program will also look at the median household income in the county that you live in and compare it to your household’s income. 

Your household’s income includes everyone who lives in your home, including any dependents. There is no minimum or maximum credit score to qualify for a first-time homebuyer grant, but there are income limits.

If You Qualify for First Front Door

The First Front Door Program is a grant program administered and controlled by the FHL Bank . Qualifying members can apply to this program with a maximum grant of up to $15,000. This program is only available while grant funds last.

It’s also important to keep in mind that to be free and clear and not have to pay any of the money back, you need to stay in the home you buy for at least five years. If you do end up selling before the five-year mark, you may need to pay back a prorated amount of money to FFD.

What Are First-Time Homebuyer Benefits?

There are several benefits to applying for this grant, that can help make it easier for you to own a home. 

The thought of investing in a home can sometimes cause more stress than excitement. The average cost of a home has increased, and down payments and closing costs make up for a major part of the expense. 

Grants for first-time homebuyers can also lessen the monthly mortgage costs. With this financial assistance, it’s also possible that you can afford a home that you wouldn’t be able to afford otherwise. 

When you’re able to purchase a home, it also means you can start building home equity. Your home equity will fluctuate the longer you live in your home and whenever you make mortgage payments. 

This equity can help you through a home renovation project with a home equity loan or home equity line of credit, or if and when you’re ready to sell, higher home equity equals a higher home value. 

You may also receive tax benefits for being a first-time home buyer. The First-Time Homebuyer Act provides up to $15,000 in refundable federal tax credits.

How These Benefits Help the Housing Market

When houses are more accessible and affordable, it creates a higher demand in the market. This drive supports the overall economy. Along with this, more homeowners mean it’s more likely that you’ll invest in the home and support the surrounding communities. 

First-Time Homebuyer Resources

Not every lender works with government assistance programs to provide first-time homebuyer grants. Diamond does, and the Mortgage team is here to look out for you through every step in the home-buying process.

• PA Housing Finance Agency offers counseling and education courses for first-time homebuyers. The counselors can help you improve your housing conditions and understand the responsibilities of owning a home. 
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s website highlights laws and regulations you may not be aware of as a new homeowner. By understanding your rights, you can make more informed decisions about your new home. 
• Consumer Reports test products and services so you can ensure you’re looking through the best options. Specifically, these guides assist you in getting the most out of your home inspection. 

If you’re looking for more guidance on first-time homebuyer grants, reach out to Diamond’s mortgage team today.

The 2026 First Front Door funding round will open on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 and are available until the funds are exhausted. Contact Diamond’s Mortgage team as soon as possible to inquire if you qualify for the grant as the funds may be depleted quickly.

*The First Front Door Program is a grant program administered and controlled by the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB). Qualifying members can apply to this program with a maximum grant of up to $15,000 towards your down payment and closing costs. A minimum of $1,500 must be contributed by the buyer. This program is only available while grant funds last. Check with a Diamond Mortgage Expert for more information, eligibility requirements or for how to apply.