Homebuyer Assistance

Getting You There

Saving for a down payment is a big undertaking and often a major hurdle to buying a house.

That’s why Civista is committed to using our extensive mortgage expertise and resources to help buying a home become a reality. A champion of responsible home ownership, our team supports a variety of specialty programs that promote affordability and flexibility for both returning and first-time homebuyers.

Homebuyer Downpayment Assistance

Civista is pleased to offer various homebuyer grant opportunities like the Civista Community View Home Loan and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Cincinnati’s Welcome Home Loan Program for low-to-moderate-income homebuyers.

Civista Community View Home Loan

Learn more about the Civista Community View Home Loan which offers eligible borrowers down payment assistance up to $3,000.

Welcome Home Program

The Federal Home Loan Bank of Cincinnati's 2025 Welcome Home Grant Program offers grants to fund down payment and closing costs for eligible borrowers. 2025 requests may be submitted beginning March 1, 2025. Contact a Civista Mortgage Specialist to prepare requests for these limited-time only funds.

Program features:

Homebuyer grants - up to $20,000 available through Civista Bank for eligible buyers.
2025 Funds are available first-come, first-served, for a limited-time only.
Homebuyers must contribute at least $500 of their own funds towards their down payment and/or closing costs. Up to $300 of these funds may be received as a gift.
A homebuyer counseling program, required for first-time homebuyers, helps prepare applicants for homeownership. Applicants do not have to be first-time homebuyers.
Grant approval is approximately 4-6 weeks; approval of grant is required before loan closing.

Connect with a Mortgage Lender

No to Low Down Payment Programs

Civista offers a variety of low-down payment programs where down payment assistance can come from gifts or grants.

FHA Loan

An FHA loan is insured by the Federal Housing Authority.
Down payments as low as 3.5%.
Gift money and grants may fund your down payment.
FHA Mortgage Insurance is required through the life of the loan. The premium is calculated based on the loan amount.

VA Loan

A VA loan is backed by the Veterans Administration to help veterans and their families purchase a home outside of conventional mortgage standards.
No down payment required as long as the sale price doesn’t exceed the appraised value.
Review Certificate of Eligibility requirements for service members, veterans, spouses and other eligible beneficiaries.
Private Mortgage Insurance is not required.

USDA Loan

USDA Guaranteed Loans are backed by the United States Department of Agriculture and are designed for eligible rural and suburban homebuyers.
Low rates with zero down payment requirement.
Income limits vary by location. Learn more about USDA loan eligibility or contact a Civista Mortgage lender near you.

HomeReady^® Mortgage

Down Payment as low as 3% of the home's purchase price.
No minimum borrower contribution toward down payment. Funds can come entirely from other sources (gifts and other assistance programs).
Allows for co-borrowers (like parents) who do not live on the property with you.
Income from extended family living with you may be considered in loan qualification.
A required homeowner education course prepares you for the ongoing responsibilities and costs of homeownership.
No income limits for properties in low- income neighborhoods.

Get Your First-Time Homebuyer’s Guide

There are a lot of parts involved when it comes to buying your first home. Enter your information below for free tips and resources with your journey to homeownership.