Home$tart Turns Setback Into Stability
last updated on Tuesday, September 23, 2025 in Affordable Housing
An unexpected event turned into a loss of hope for a family's home purchase, until a $15,000 Home$tart grant helped cover costs and keep their dream alive.
Home$tart doesn’t just ease the transition into homeownership, it can keep it from falling apart altogether.
A client of First Federal Bank of Twin Falls faced an unexpected family issue that caused a drop in income during construction of their new home. Their debt-to-income ratio spiked, and they could not qualify for a second loan that was needed to cover the down payment.
Their lender at First Federal Bank helped them apply for a $15,000 grant through the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines. That grant reduced their monthly housing payment and eliminated the need for any out-of-pocket expenses on their part.
This experience underscores the value of exploring all available financial assistance options and demonstrates how resources can make homeownership attainable even in challenging circumstances.
Thanks to the partnership between First Federal Bank and FHLB Des Moines, Home$tart can help ensure that more individuals achieve their homeownership goals, regardless of the obstacles they may encounter.
Want to read more First Federal homebuyer stories? Read Here
About First Federal Bank
First Federal Bank is Idaho’s only mutual bank with more than $1.4 billion in assets. It has served the Gem State for over 110 years and has 14 branches located throughout the Magic and Treasure Valleys. First Fed provides businesses and retail customers with local access to premier financial services and solutions including personal banking, business banking, lending, and wealth management. As Idaho’s community bank of choice, First Federal team members serve on numerous boards and committees of non-profits and civic organizations as well as take part in a wide range of community improvement initiatives and philanthropic efforts. In addition, the First Federal Foundation has donated over $1.5 million to local causes since its inception in 2003.
For more news and information about First Federal Bank, be sure to follow First Fed on Instagram and Facebook (@BankFirstFed) as well as LinkedIn (LinkedIn.com/company/bankfirstfed) or, visit the official digital home of First Federal Bank at BankFirstFed.com.
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