IFA FirstHome Program & Down Payment Assistance
Clinton does not offer a city-specific homebuyer grant, but first-time buyers can get assistance via IFA’s FirstHome program. This includes **down payment and closing cost aid** in two forms: a **$2,500 grant** (essentially free money):contentReference[oaicite:74]{index=74}, or a larger **second mortgage up to 5%** of the purchase price at 0% interest:contentReference[oaicite:75]{index=75}. The assistance must be used alongside an IFA mortgage loan. Program eligibility is limited to first-time buyers (or military exceptions) under income limits (vary by household size in Clinton County) and homes under the price cap. The grant and loan cannot be combined with each other:contentReference[oaicite:76]{index=76}, and the buyer must occupy the home as a primary residence.
Estimated assistance: $2,500
Down payment use: May apply
Official source