IFA FirstHome Program & Down Payment Assistance
Mason City’s homebuyers can benefit from the Iowa Finance Authority’s FirstHome initiatives. These provide **down payment and closing cost assistance** statewide: a **$2,500 grant** and/or a **low-interest second loan (up to 5% of price)**:contentReference[oaicite:62]{index=62}. The grant does not need to be repaid:contentReference[oaicite:63]{index=63}. The second loan has no monthly payments and is due only when the property is sold or the mortgage is paid off. Program eligibility is based on being a first-time buyer (or qualifying exception), household income under the county limit, and purchase price under the cap:contentReference[oaicite:64]{index=64}.
Estimated assistance: Varies by program
Down payment use: May apply
Official source