Closing Cost Assistance for 2026 Buyers

Just in time for the spring 2026 housing market, United Home Loans is re-releasing our exclusive, limited-time Home Ownership Made Easy (H.O.M.E.) closing cost assistance program! This is our sixth time around, reinforcing our ongoing commitment to lowering the barriers to becoming a homeowner in our communities. 

Up to $5,000 in Closing Cost Assistance 

One of the most common challenges first-time home buyers face is upfront costs, which include the down payment and closing costs. 

From our founding, UHL has been proud to offer low down payment options and solutions (read more). But as affordability declined in recent years, we felt the need to establish H.O.M.E. to address the second aspect of the challenge, closing costs. The H.O.M.E program provides eligible first-time buyers with closing cost assistance in the form of a lender contribution of 2% of the loan amount, up to as much as $5,000. 

Who Qualifies? 

As the housing market became more competitive and interest rates rose, we recognized that even the average first-time home buyer, who may not qualify for low-income credits elsewhere, needs a helping hand. 

This is why the income limitation for H.O.M.E. is at or below 120% of the Area Median Income (AMI). To find out if you’re eligible, use the AMI lookup tool. H.O.M.E. is also offered near our home, providing closing cost assistance for first-time buyers in Illinois, Wisconsin, and Tennessee. 

Not a First-Time Buyer? 

Spring 2026 also marks the second release of an expanded version of the H.O.M.E. closing cost assistance program. Existing homeowners who are looking to grow their homeownership journey may qualify if they are buying in an eligible community lending census tract. To find out more about qualifying areas near you, contact one of our mortgage bankers. 

Limited-Time Program

Upon each release of the program, United Home Loans sets aside a certain amount of funds to be distributed through H.O.M.E. Once the funds run out, the program closes. So, if you’re looking to become a first-time homeowner this spring, get a pre-approval today!