26-Oct-2025
IHDAccess Forgivable gives up to 4 percent of the purchase price for down payment or closing cost help, typically capped around 6,000 dollars.
It is forgivable over 10 years if you live in the home as your primary residence. Many buyers qualify, first time and repeat alike depending on the mortgage product.
Typical requirements include about a 640 credit score, income and purchase price limits that vary by county, and a homebuyer education course.
IHDAccess Deferred offers up to 5 percent of the purchase price, often capped near 7,500 dollars. This is a zero interest deferred loan. You pay it back when you sell, refinance, or pay off the mortgage. Eligibility rules mirror other IHDA products.
IHDAccess Repayable provides up to 10 percent of the purchase price, often capped near 10,000 dollars. The loan is interest free and repaid monthly, usually over about 10 years. This suits buyers who prefer steady payments instead of a lump sum later.
Opening Doors focuses on underserved communities and often provides roughly 6,000 dollars for down payment or closing costs. It may cover first time and repeat buyers depending on the program rules.
State program summary
Many IHDA programs accept repeat buyers as well as first time buyers. These programs mainly cover down payment and closing costs. You must use an approved lender. Expect income and purchase price limits, minimum credit scores, and mandatory homebuyer education. Funds for local programs may be limited and programs can pause or close.
Local and county programs
Cook County reopened a down payment assistance program in 2025 with new funding to help about 500 additional homebuyers. This program is useful for people in the Chicago metro area who meet local rules.
Chicago has the Community Connections Home Buyer Assistance program that can provide up to about 7 percent of the loan amount for down payment or closing costs. Both first time and repeat buyers may qualify if they meet income and lender rules.
Other cities can offer larger grants. For example, Rockford has offered assistance up to about 14,999 dollars for eligible first time buyers. Local programs have their own eligibility rules and limited funds.
First time versus repeat buyers
Local programs often restrict aid to first time buyers or to people who have not owned a home for a set number of years. Statewide IHDA programs are often more flexible and may allow repeat buyers. Assistance amounts are similar across program types and usually range from roughly 5,000 to 10,000 dollars. Some programs forgive the loan over time, some defer repayment until sale or refinance, and some require monthly repayment. Check each program for the homeownership history rule and repayment terms.
Key eligibility items to check
Income and purchase price limits change by county and household size. Credit score minimums are often around 640. Many programs require a homebuyer education course. The house must be your primary residence. Approved lender rules apply. Funds can run out, so check whether a program is open.
Recommendations for 2025
If you are a first time buyer you will find many options in Illinois. If you are a repeat buyer look for programs that explicitly allow repeat buyers, especially IHDA products. Start early. Get preapproved with an approved lender and complete any required education. Plan for ongoing home costs such as taxes, insurance, and maintenance. Check program status for your county or city because availability changes.
