First Start Homebuyer Program

Open

City of Wilmington – Department of Real Estate and HousingDEFirst-Time Homeowner

Funding: $1,000–$15,000Deferred loanScope: Citystate

Updated: Dec 1, 2025

Summary

Wilmington’s First Start Homebuyer Program provides up to $15,000 in down payment and closing-cost assistance to low- and moderate-income first-time buyers purchasing owner-occupied homes inside city limits.

Benefits

Down payment assistanceClosing cost assistance

Who Can Apply

Individual

Eligible Locations

Homes located in the City of Wilmington; first-time homebuyers and income-eligible per CDBG/general fund income limits.

Eligibility

First-time homebuyers, displaced homemakers and single parents purchasing a single-family home within the City of Wilmington who have not owned a home in the last three years, meet income limits (CDBG 80% AMI or non-federal 100% AMI), contribute at least $1,000 of their own funds, obtain a fixed-rate first mortgage with a term of 30 years or less, complete certified housing counseling, and will occupy the home as their primary residence.

Full Description

The program page notes that Wilmington is actively accepting applications and has set aside both federal CDBG funds, limited to households at or below 80% of median income, and local general funds that may serve households up to 100% of median income. Eligible applicants must obtain a fixed-rate mortgage of no more than 30 years, contribute at least $1,000 of their own (non-gift) money toward closing, and purchase a single-family home within the city that will serve as their primary residence. The assistance is capped at the lesser of $15,000 or 6% of the purchase price and can be applied to down payment and closing costs, but not to prepaid items. The FAQ section clarifies that buyers must be first-time homebuyers under HUD’s definition or qualifying displaced homemakers or single parents, must complete a certified housing counseling course, and do not need to already live in Wilmington to apply. Applications are submitted through participating lenders or housing counselors via the Neighborly online portal, with City staff reviewing for compliance and committing funds when buyers are ready to close.

Verification & Details

Complexity: Moderate

Confidence: 90%

Status: Open

Source: wilmingtonde.gov

Based on city webpage and recent news release; program funds limited and forgivable loan after 10 yrs occupancy.

Official source → wilmingtonde.gov

Apply on official siteUpdated Dec 1, 2025

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