Tag: USDA Rural Development

How to Get $2,500 in Grant Assistance for Your New Home in Kentucky in 2025!


$2500 Grant from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac To Buy a home in Kentucky

Kentucky Homeownership just got more affordable for low-to-moderate income Kentucky residents! If you’re planning to buy a home in 2025, you could qualify for a $2,500 grant.

This grant is available through Freddie Mac’s Home Possible® and Fannie Mae’s HomeReady® programs. This limited-time offer can help cover your down payment. It also assists with closing costs. This makes the dream of homeownership more accessible. Let’s break it down!

What Are HomeReady® and Home Possible® Programs?

HomeReady®:

Offered by Fannie Mae, this program provides:

  1. Low down payments as little as 3%.
  2. Flexible mortgage options for borrowers with household incomes below the area median income.
  3. Reduced mortgage insurance requirements, making homeownership more affordable.
  4. 620 credit scores or higher
  5. lower mortgage insurance
  6. 3 percent down payment
  7. 4 years removed from bankruptcy

Home Possible®:

Freddie Mac’s Home Possible® program offers:

  1. 3% down payment options for eligible buyers.
  2. Flexible credit terms and lower mortgage insurance premiums.
  3. Special features to assist low-income buyers achieve their homeownership goals.
  4. 620 credit scores or higher
  5. lower mortgage insurance
  6. 3 percent down payment
  7. 4 years removed from bankruptcy

The $2,500 Grant: What You Need to Know

This $2,500 credit can be used toward:

  • Down payment costs and prepaids for taxes, home insurance and prepaid interest
  • Closing costs, helping to reduce the financial burden of purchasing a home.

Eligibility Criteria

  1. Property Types: The grant applies to purchases of 1-4 unit properties.
  2. Income Limits: Borrower’s income must not exceed 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI).
  3. Loan Programs: The credit is available exclusively through Fannie Mae’s HomeReady® and Freddie Mac’s Home Possible® loan programs.

Program Duration

  • Loans must achieve “purchase-ready” status by February 28, 2026.
  • For loans delivered into mortgage-backed securities (MBS), the deadline is February 1, 2026.

Why Take Advantage of This Program?

This grant is a game-changer for first-time and low-income homebuyers in Kentucky. The financial relief offered helps bridge the gap for individuals and families working toward their goal of owning a home.

Get Started Today!

If you’re ready to make your move, contact an experienced loan officer who specializes in HomeReady® and Home Possible® programs. They can guide you through the eligibility process. They will help you take the next step toward achieving your dream of homeownership with this incredible grant opportunity.

If you’re in Kentucky, don’t miss this chance to access $2,500 in grant assistance. Make your homeownership dream a reality in 2025. For more information, get in touch with a local expert today!

What You Need to Know:

  1. Eligibility: Your income must be ≤ 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI) to qualify.
    👉 Check the AMI Map for Your Area
  2. Property Types: Applies to 1-4 unit properties.
  3. Programs: Available through HomeReady® and Home Possible® loan programs.
  4. Deadlines: Loans must achieve “purchase-ready” status by February 28, 2026.

Don’t miss this opportunity to reduce your upfront homebuying costs. Find out if you qualify and connect with a local loan officer today. These grants are limited and offered for a short time—act before the deadlines pass!

Eligibility Requirements for the $2,500 Grant

This $2,500 credit is available exclusively through Fannie Mae’s HomeReady® mortgage. Here’s what you need to qualify:

1. Mortgage Insurance

  • If you put less than 20% down, you’ll need mortgage insurance. However:
    • HomeReady® mortgage insurance premiums are reduced once your loan-to-value ratio reaches 90%.
    • The insurance is canceled when you reach 80% equity. Unlike FHA loans, they often require mortgage insurance for the loan’s life.

2. Kentucky First-Time or Repeat Homebuyers

  1. You don’t need to be a first-time Kentucky homebuyer to qualify for HomeReady®.
  2. If all borrowers on the loan are first-time buyers, at least one must complete a homeownership education course. This course can be Fannie Mae HomeLier.
  3. Income limits below for Major Cities in Kentucky

Why Choose HomeReady® Over Other Loan Options?

  1. Lower Down Payment: Only 3% is required, compared to 3.5% for FHA loans.
  2. Reduced Mortgage Insurance Costs: Save money over the life of the loan.
  3. Flexible Eligibility: The program is open to both first-time and repeat buyers. The flexibility in household income allows multi-generational income to help you qualify.

How to Get Started

  1. Check Your Eligibility: Use the AMI Lookup Tool to determine if your income qualifies for the grant.
  2. Contact a Lender: Work with a lender who offers HomeReady® mortgages. They can guide you through the application process and help determine your grant eligibility.
  3. Complete a Homebuyer Education Course: If you’re a first-time homebuyer, complete the required course to meet eligibility.

Take the First Step Toward Homeownership in Kentucky

The $2,500 credit from Fannie Mae’s HomeReady® mortgage offers a fantastic way to reduce your upfront costs. It helps make homeownership more affordable. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, this grant is here to help.

Don’t miss out on this limited-time opportunity to take advantage of a program designed to help Kentucky homebuyers like you. Start your journey today and make your dream home a reality!

Below is a snapshot of current income limits for Homeready and Home Possible. These are the income limits for Jefferson, Fayette, Warren, and Daviess County. This is for 2025 household income limits.

Click on picture for more info for other Kentucky properties.

🏠 COMPANY NMLS# 1738461
Advertised in: KY

ADVERTISEMENT |EVO Mortgage  is an Equal Housing Opportunity Lender NMLS # 1738461   (Nationwide Multistate Licensing System –

 www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) Terms, conditions, and restrictions may apply. All information contained herein is for informational purposes only and, while every effort is made to ensure accuracy, no guarantee is expressed or implied. Not a commitment to extend credit.

Borrower must meet all loan program and eligibility requirements. Information is subject to change without any notice. This is not an offer for an extension of credit or a commitment to lend. Restrictions may apply.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Eligibility for the $2,500 credit is based on qualifying income at or below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI). This is determined via Fannie Mae’s and Freddie Mac’s respective tools. The credit must be applied toward down payment and/or closing costs for eligible 1-unit properties. It is also applicable for 2-4 unit properties with LTV ≤ 80%. The program applies to FNMA HomeReady® loans with closing dates between March 1, 2024, and February 28, 2025. It also applies to FHLMC Home Possible® loans within the same dates. All loans must be approved via DU or LPA

 Email – kentuckyloan@gmail.com 

 Call/Text – 502-905-3708

Joel Lobb
Mortgage Loan Officer – Expert on Kentucky Mortgage Loans


 Websitewww.mylouisvillekentuckymortgage.com
 Address: 911 Barret Ave., Louisville, KY 40204


Evo Mortgage
Company NMLS# 1738461
Personal NMLS# 57916

For assistance with Kentucky mortgage loans, reach out via email, call, or text Joel Lobb directly.

Podcast Kentucky Mortgage Loan Approval Tips 


Podcast Kentucky Mortgage Loan Approval Tips

How to Navigate Kentucky Mortgage Underwriting Guidelines and Get Approved for a Home Loan

Podcast Kentucky Mortgage Loan Approval Tips Are you searching for reliable information about qualifying for a Kentucky mortgage loan? Understanding underwriting guidelines is crucial for increasing your chances of approval. These guidelines are the criteria lenders use to review your financial history and determine your eligibility. In this blog post, we’ll outline the key factors

Buying your first home in Kentucky and what home loan program to use


Buying your first home in Kentucky can be an exciting yet daunting process. Fortunately, there are several home loan programs specifically designed to help first-time buyers achieve their dream of homeownership. What are the Kentucky homebuyer programs for 2025?

The main options for Kentucky homebuyers in 2025 include Conventional Loans and FHA loans. They also include VA, USDA, and Kentucky Housing Corporation (KHC) Down Payment Assistance programs. Here’s an overview of each program and what you need to know to get started.

How to Qualify for a Kentucky USDA Loan in 2025


USDA loan in Kentucky in 2025

If you’re looking to buy a home in Kentucky, consider a USDA loan. It may be the perfect mortgage program if you want to live in a rural area. The USDA Rural Development Loan offers 100% financing with no down payment, making it an excellent option for low-to-moderate-income homebuyers. Here’s everything you need to know to qualify for a USDA loan in Kentucky in 2025.


Key Features of a Kentucky USDA Loan


Upfront Guarantee Fee:

A 1% upfront guarantee fee can be financed into the loan.
Annual fee: 0.35% of the average scheduled unpaid principal balance, paid monthly for the life of the loan.


Debt-to-Income (DTI) Ratio:

Standard ratio: 29/41% without compensating factors.
Ratio waivers may be approved if underwriting identifies strong compensating factors.


Credit Requirements:

Minimum credit score: 620 preferred but No minimum credit score requirement
Non-traditional credit is not eligible.
At least one applicant must have a 12-month credit history. This history should show no bankruptcies, foreclosures, tax liens, judgments, collections, or charge-offs in the last 36 months.


Income Restrictions:

Kentucky USDA Income limits apply based on family size, state, and county. see household income limits here click on link
All adult household income must be included to calculate total household income.


Employment Verification:

Wage Earners: Verbal or written verification of employment (VOE) is required. Pay stubs are needed. Provide 2 years of W-2s. 2 years of IRS tax transcripts are required.
Self-Employed: Verify 2 years of active business. Provide 2 years of personal and business tax returns. Include a year-to-date profit and loss (P&L) statement. Supply 2 years of IRS transcripts.


Eligible vs. Ineligible Properties


Eligible Properties:

Must be located in a designated rural area.
Includes single-family primary residences, modular homes, and detached or attached planned unit developments (PUDs).
Thermal standards must meet or exceed the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC).


Ineligible Properties:

Cooperatives.
Income-producing properties.
Manufactured or mobile homes.
Non-rural designated properties.
Non-owner-occupied homes.


How to Determine Eligibility


You need to confirm if a property is located in a designated rural area. Visit the USDA Property Eligibility Map by clicking this link 👇

Kentucky USDA Rural Housing Map for 2025 for Eligible Property Locations

To check income limits for your county, use the

️ USDA Income Eligibility Tool.


Why Choose a Kentucky USDA Loan?


No Down Payment: 100% financing makes USDA loans affordable for first-time buyers.
Low Monthly Costs: With reduced mortgage insurance premiums and competitive interest rates, USDA loans help keep payments manageable.
Accessible Requirements: Even with moderate credit, you can qualify for a USDA loan if other requirements are met.

For personalized guidance and assistance with USDA loans in Kentucky, contact a mortgage professional today. Start your journey to owning your dream home.

Joel Lobb (NMLS#57916) Senior  Loan Officer   American Mortgage Solutions, Inc. 10602 Timberwood Circle Suite 3 Louisville, KY 40223 Company ID #1364 | MB73346    Text/call 502-905-3708 kentuckyloan@gmail.com

Joel Lobb (NMLS#57916)
Senior  Loan Officer

Text/call 502-905-3708
kentuckyloan@gmail.com

Call TOLL FREE to speak
with a USDA Loan Specialist
502-905-3708

 Buying Your First House in Kentucky: Loan Programs and Requirements


Buying Your First House in Kentucky with the recommend mortgage loan programs below

A Guide to Buying Your First House in Kentucky: Loan Programs and Requirements
Buying your first home in Kentucky is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming. Fortunately, there are several loan programs and resources available to make the process smoother. This guide will walk you through the most popular loan programs and their requirements, helping you take confident steps toward homeownership.

  1. FHA Loan: A Flexible Option for First-Time Buyers
    The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loan is popular among first-time homebuyers due to its lenient requirements.
    Key Requirements:
    Credit Score: Minimum of 580 with 3.5% down payment. Scores between 500-579 require a 10% down payment.
    Down Payment: 3.5% minimum.
    Mortgage Insurance: Requires both an upfront premium and monthly mortgage insurance.
    Debt-to-Income (DTI) Ratio: Typically up to 43%.
    Benefits:
    Lower credit score requirements.
    Smaller down payment.
    Flexible income guidelines.
  2. VA Loan: No Money Down for Eligible Veterans
    The VA Loan is a fantastic option for Kentucky veterans, active-duty service members, and their spouses. It’s backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
    Key Requirements:
    Credit Score: No official minimum, but lenders often look for 580-620.
    Down Payment: $0 (no down payment required).
    Certificate of Eligibility (COE): Required to prove eligibility.
    Mortgage Insurance: None, but a VA funding fee applies.
    Benefits:
    No down payment.
    No private mortgage insurance (PMI).
    Competitive interest rates.
  3. USDA Loan: Ideal for Rural Homebuyers
    The USDA Rural Development Loan is perfect for buyers looking to live in rural or suburban areas in Kentucky.
    Key Requirements:
    Credit Score: Generally 620 or higher.
    Income Limits: Household income must not exceed the area’s median income.
    Location: The property must be in a USDA-eligible rural area.
    Debt-to-Income Ratio: Up to 41%.
    Benefits:
    $0 down payment.
    Affordable mortgage insurance.
    Competitive fixed interest rates.
  4. Kentucky Housing Corporation (KHC) Programs
    The Kentucky Housing Corporation offers down payment assistance and loan options to first-time buyers.
    KHC Loan Options:
    KHC FHA or Conventional Loans: Competitive rates and assistance programs.
    Down Payment Assistance: Up to $10,000 in assistance for qualifying borrowers.
    Key Requirements:
    Credit Score: Minimum 620 for most programs.
    Income Limits: Vary by program and household size.
    Property Type: Must be a primary residence.
  5. Conventional Loan: A Strong Option for Higher Credit Scores
    Conventional loans, offered through private lenders, are great for buyers with stronger credit profiles.
    Key Requirements:
    Credit Score: Minimum 660.
    Down Payment: As low as 3% with first-time buyer programs.
    Mortgage Insurance: Required if down payment is less than 20%.
    Benefits:
    Lower interest rates for strong credit scores.
    Option to cancel PMI once equity reaches 20%.
    Check Your Credit Score: Understand where you stand. If needed, work on improving your score before applying.
    Determine Your Budget: Get pre-approved for a mortgage to understand your price range.
    Explore Loan Options: Compare FHA, VA, USDA, KHC, and Conventional loans.
    Find Down Payment Assistance: Ask about programs like KHC’s assistance or grants.
    Work with a Trusted Mortgage Broker: Consider partnering with someone like Joel Lobb, a Kentucky-based mortgage expert specializing in first-time buyer programs.
    Conclusion
    Buying your first home in Kentucky doesn’t have to be intimidating. With programs like FHA, VA, USDA, and KHC, you can find a loan that fits your financial situation and homeownership goals.
    Take the first step today by getting pre-approved, exploring your options, and partnering with a knowledgeable mortgage expert.
    For more details or assistance, feel free to reach out to a trusted loan officer like Joel Lobb to guide you every step of the way.


1 –  Email – kentuckyloan@gmail.com 
2.   Call/Text – 502-905-3708

Joel Lobb
Mortgage Loan Officer – Expert on Kentucky Mortgage Loans


🌐 Websitewww.mylouisvillekentuckymortgage.com
🏢 Address: 911 Barret Ave., Louisville, KY 40204


Evo Mortgage
Company NMLS# 1738461
Personal NMLS# 57916

For assistance with Kentucky mortgage loans, reach out via email, call, or text Joel Lobb directly.