Dubuque First-Time Homebuyer Loan Program

In an effort to help individuals achieve their dreams of homeownership, the City of Dubuque offers the First-Time Homebuyer Loan Program. This helps potential homebuyers overcome the hurdle of saving for the hefty, upfront costs associated with a mortgage transaction.

Available Assistance
This program provides long-term, zero-interest loans of up to $5,000 to help cover down payment and closing costs associated with purchasing a new home. In the case of household income less than 30 percent of the area median income (AMI), individuals may also receive up to $25,000.

Loans in the amount of $5,000 are repaid over a maximum 8-year term, while those in the amount of $25,000 are deferred for 5 years and then $60/month for a 35-year term. All Assisted Housing participants are eligible for a deferred loan for 5 years.

Eligibility Requirements
All borrowers must contribute at least 3 percent of the purchase price toward the down payment; 1 percent must be their own money, while 2 percent can be gifted money. ​Any individual applying for the program must be a first-time homebuyer and must fall under 80 percent of the AMI. Repayment terms are based on how far under the income limit an applicant is (<30, <50 or <80 percent of the AMI).​

Property Guidelines
Eligible applicants can receive assistance for an owner-occupied, single-family or duplex home, located anywhere in the City of Dubuque. All properties must be inspected by the City’s Rehabilitation Programs Inspector prior to the loan approval. In the case of any code violations, the homebuyer must fill out the inspection sheet regarding repairs and submit bids if required. All properties using federal funds must be lead safe or free of deteriorated paint.

Income Limits
1 person household: $37,200
2 person household: $42,500
3 person household: $47,800
4 person household: $53,100
5 person household: $57,350
6 person household: $61,600
7 person household: $65,850
8 person household: $70,100

Note: These figures were accurate at the time of publication and may no longer be current - visit the program website for updated information.