Our first-time homebuyer programs, including a variety of down payment assistance grants, can help open the door to homeownership.
From saving for a down payment to navigating home prices, interest rates, credit scores, and simply understanding the process, buying your first home can be overwhelming. But with the right programs and an attentive team of experts on your side, you can achieve your goal and enjoy the benefits of homeownership for generations to come.
Programs like our Next Horizon Mortgage can eliminate the down payment, while others like Home Possible®, HomeReady®, and FHA can reduce the down payment to as little as 3%, making your home purchase more affordable.
To help offset the down payment and/or closing costs, we offer multiple down payment assistance programs like the Community Home Buyer Grant which provides up to $7,500 to eligible borrowers. We also partner with various community organizations to help you secure additional grant money that may be available.
Our attentive lenders will help you find the right loan program for your budget and determine your eligibility for down payment assistance. We are genuine about wanting to help you prosper so you can be confident that we’ll have your best interests at heart as we support your journey to becoming a homeowner.
Ready to learn more? Contact us to request more information and connect with a local lender.
“The Community Home Lending team was there for me every step of the way. They encouraged me to apply for the Next Horizon Mortgage program to help me afford the down payment and closing costs – and in the end I had a lower interest rate, a lower monthly payment, and got some money back at closing. This is my first home purchase, and I’m the first person in my family to own a home. I’ll be able to grow equity and build wealth, so that I can have something to leave my children. One of my main goals in life was to become a homeowner, and the people of First Merchants Bank made that possible.”
- Moesha Black
First Generation Homeowner
Affordable Home Loan SolutionsWe believe everyone should have a safe, affordable place to live. Homeownership can be a powerful tool in building long-term wealth and achieving financial stability. But not everyone can afford or qualify for a traditional loan. From down payment grants to alternate methods of credit verification, we have special programs designed to lower the barriers to buying a home. |
Financial Wellness ResourcesBeyond affordable home loans and dependable banking services, we offer a promise to help you prosper. From starting a budget and improving your credit, to buying a house and saving for retirement, we have free tools and knowledgeable bankers that can get you on track to hitting your goals. |
Local Lenders that CareOur lenders are passionate about making a positive impact on people’s lives. From increasing access to affordable loans and closing the homeownership gap in our diverse communities, to providing financial education and volunteering with local organizations, our team is committed to helping local families and neighborhoods prosper. |
Meet Our Home Lending Team
Matthew Bergin
NMLS #66692
Phone: 248.906.8860
Michigan
Kevin Breil
NMLS #533275
Phone: 248.376.4286
Michigan
Maria Casas
Hablo Español
NMLS #2171123
Phone: 765.490.5766
Indiana - NW/Lakeshore
Tonjola D Cole
NMLS #658375
Phone: 313.205.7487
Michigan - Detroit
Edith (Edie) Gallegos
Hablo Español
NMLS #1147968
Phone: 317.706.6612
Indiana
Marc Michalak
NMLS #325054
Phone: 734.777.5758
Michigan
Cristian Balcazar-Murillo
Hablo Español
NMLS #2586185
Phone: 260.310.0493
Indiana – Fort Wayne
Sean Murnane
NMLS #740031
Phone: 740.475.9898
Ohio
Teri Todd
NMLS #446110
Phone: 317.523.4320
Indiana
All loans are subject to credit approval. Eligibility requirements vary by program. Contact a lender for full details.
