03/13/2026
THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF GRANTS TO BUY A HOME
Philadelphia has several home grants and assistance programs designed to help people buy, repair, or keep their homes. These programs usually target first-time buyers, low-to-moderate income households, or homeowners facing financial hardship. Here are the main types.
1. First-Time Homebuyer Grants
These are the most common grants. They help buyers cover down payments or closing costs.
Philly First Home Program
Grant up to $10,000 (or 6% of the purchase price).
Used for down payment or closing costs.
Must be a first-time homebuyer (or not owned a home in 3 years).
Must buy a single-family home or duplex in Philadelphia.
Requires homeownership counseling before signing the purchase agreement.
Important detail:
The grant may be forgivable if you live in the home for up to 15 years, otherwise it may need to be repaid.
2. Down Payment Assistance Grants
These programs help buyers who already have some savings but need extra help.
First Front Door Program
Provides up to $15,000 in grants.
Buyers must contribute at least $1,500 of their own money.
Household income must usually be ≤80% of the area median income.
Requires homebuyer education classes.
This program is commonly offered through lenders that participate with the Federal Home Loan Bank.
3. Closing Cost Assistance Grants
Some programs specifically help cover settlement costs rather than the down payment.
Example: PhillySEEDS Closing Cost Grant
Matches savings dollar-for-dollar up to $2,000.
Designed mainly for public housing or housing voucher participants purchasing their first home.
4. Small Homebuyer Grants (Non-profit Programs)
Some organizations provide smaller grants to help buyers complete their purchase.
HOMEPHL Grant
Around $1,000 for down payment or closing costs.
Funds do not need to be repaid.
Includes support from housing counselors.
5. Foreclosure Prevention Grants
These are for current homeowners who are struggling financially.
Philadelphia Foreclosure Prevention Grant
Helps homeowners who are 3+ months behind on their mortgage.
Provides funds to help them catch up on payments and avoid foreclosure. Requires proof of financial hardship and income eligibility.
6. Home Repair & Improvement Grants
Philadelphia also offers grants to fix or improve homes, including:
Examples include:
Basic Systems Repair Program – fixes electrical, plumbing, and heating. Weatherization Assistance Program – improves energy efficiency. Adaptive Modifications Program – modifies homes for people with disabilities.
These programs help homeowners stay in their homes safely. Contact for more information:
Guarnteed Rate Emmett Harkins [email protected] (267) 446-8800
Firstrust Bank Joe Panepresso [email protected] (215) 805-2091
Cross Country Mortgage Joseph Callahan [email protected] (215) 913-8581
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