Down payment and closing cost assistance offered by SWNCBC

Southwest Nebraska Community Betterment Corporation (SWNCBC), a non-profit organization located in Grant, currently has funding to provide down payment/closing cost assistance to first-time homebuyers using funding provided by the Nebraska Department of Economic Development. 

The down payment/closing cost assistance program is currently being offered in the SWNCBC five county service area which includes the incorporated communities of Grant, Venango, Elsie, Madrid, Imperial, Wauneta, Lamar, Benkelman, Haigler, Stratton, Trenton, Culbertson, Palisade, Hayes Center and Hamlet. 

This program is a “forgivable loan” at 0 percent interest, with no repayment necessary as long as the family maintains the property as their primary residence for the next 10 years. 

SWNCBC will offer first-time homebuyers up to $18,000 to those who qualify. The final amount of assistance given depends on the amount the lender requires and cannot exceed 20 percent of the purchase price of the home. 

Those who have not owned a home in three years, or have experienced a life change such as divorce or being widowed may qualify as a first-time homebuyer. SWNCBC also partners with other organizations to assist first-time homebuyers.

First-time homebuyers will need to attend a Reach Affiliated Homebuyer Education Class, offered by SWNCBC. SWNCBC offers face-to-face classes as well as online classes through ehomeamerica.org. Spanish classes are also available through ehomeamerica.org. 

SWNCBC is currently accepting applications for these programs. Applications can be picked up at the SWNCBC office located at 115 W. Third Street in Grant, online at www.southwestne.com or by e-mailing swncbc@gpcom.net or calling 308-352-4338 and requesting an application by mail.