Down Payment Assistance Made Simple

The CBC Mortgage Chenoa Fund offers reliable down payment assistance programs designed to make homeownership more accessible.

Verify Your Chenoa Fund Eligibility
Little girl hugging her parents in their new house living room

Why Choose the Chenoa Fund?

With no income limits, a minimum credit score of just 600, and support for both first-time and repeat homebuyers, this program helps individuals and families nationwide achieve their homeownership goals.

Since its inception, the Chenoa Fund has assisted over 50,000 homebuyers with critical down payment support, offering solutions that work alongside FHA loans to bridge the financial gap.

No Income Limits

Unlike many assistance programs, the Chenoa Fund does not cap borrower income. This flexibility allows more people to qualify.

Always Funded, Year-Round

The Chenoa Fund is continuously funded, meaning eligible borrowers never have to worry about program availability.

Post-Purchase Homeownership Support

Borrowers receive a year and a half of homeownership counseling and resources through Money Management International (MMI), promoting long-term success.

Can Be Combined With Other Assistance

Combine Chenoa Fund support with other gift funds or assistance programs for even greater purchasing power.

Chenoa Fund Program Options

3.5% Repayable Assistance

  • Provides 3.5% of the home purchase price for down payment.
  • Repayable over a 10-year term with an interest rate matching the first mortgage.
  • Best suited for buyers confident in their ability to repay.

3.5% Forgivable Assistance

  • Offers 3.5% down payment support.
  • Forgiven after 36 consecutive on-time payments on the FHA first mortgage.
  • No monthly payments required.
  • Ideal for buyers planning to stay long-term.

5% Repayable Assistance

  • Covers 5% of the home purchase price.
  • Includes a 10-year repayment period at a low interest rate.
  • Designed for buyers needing a larger down payment.

5% Forgivable Assistance

  • Provides 5% assistance with no monthly payments.
  • Forgiven after 120 consecutive on-time payments on the FHA first mortgage.
  • Offers flexibility for buyers purchasing higher-priced homes.

How Chenoa Fund Down Payment Assistance Works

Qualify for an FHA Loan

The Chenoa Fund works exclusively with FHA-insured home loans.

Select an Assistance Option

Borrowers choose between 3.5% or 5% assistance, either repayable or forgivable.

Receive Down Payment Funds

Funds are provided as a second mortgage, which can cover the FHA-required 3.5% minimum down payment or assist with closing costs.

Repay or Earn Forgiveness

Depending on the program option, borrowers may repay the assistance or have it forgiven after a period of on-time mortgage payments.

Who Can Benefit from Chenoa Fund Assistance?

The Chenoa Fund is designed for a wide range of homebuyers, including:

First-Time Homebuyers: Those entering the housing market for the first time.

Repeat Buyers: Individuals or families moving into a new primary residence.

Low-to-Moderate Income Borrowers: Despite no income limits, the program is ideal for those who need help covering a down payment.

Borrowers with Limited Savings: Buyers who meet FHA credit and DTI requirements but lack enough funds for upfront costs.

Who Qualifies for the Chenoa Fund?

Credit Score: Minimum 600

Income Limits: None

Loan Type: Must qualify for an FHA loan

Primary Residence: The purchased home must be a primary residence

Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI): Typically up to 45% (max 50% in some cases)

Homeownership Counseling: Required for borrowers below specific credit thresholds

Frequently Asked Questions About the Chenoa Fund

What is the Chenoa Fund?

The Chenoa Fund is a nationwide down payment assistance program provided by CBC Mortgage Agency. It offers repayable and forgivable assistance options to help borrowers cover the minimum down payment for FHA loans.

How much down payment assistance does the Chenoa Fund provide?

The Chenoa Fund offers 3.5% or 5% down payment assistance, depending on the borrower’s needs. Assistance can either be repayable over 10 years or forgiven after a specific period of on-time mortgage payments.

Does the Chenoa Fund require first-time homebuyer status?

No, the Chenoa Fund does not require borrowers to be first-time homebuyers. Both first-time and repeat buyers are eligible if they meet the program's qualifications.

Are there income limits for the Chenoa Fund?

No, there are no income limits for borrowers using the Chenoa Fund down payment assistance program. This makes it accessible to a wide range of income levels.

Is the down payment assistance from the Chenoa Fund forgivable?

Yes, the Chenoa Fund offers forgivable assistance options.

  • 3.5% assistance is forgiven after 36 consecutive on-time payments on the FHA first mortgage.
  • 5% assistance is forgiven after 120 consecutive on-time payments on the FHA first mortgage.

Can Chenoa Fund assistance be used for closing costs?

Yes, Chenoa Fund assistance can be applied to closing costs, prepaid items, or a combination of the down payment and closing costs, giving borrowers flexibility in how they use the funds.

How is the Chenoa Fund assistance structured?

Assistance is provided as a second mortgage. This mortgage can either be:

  • Repayable: 10-year term with an interest rate matching the FHA first mortgage.
  • Forgivable: 0% interest with no monthly payments, forgivable after meeting certain conditions.

Does the Chenoa Fund offer post-purchase support?

Yes, borrowers receive 18 months of homeownership counseling and financial education through Money Management International (MMI), a HUD-approved counseling agency. This support helps borrowers succeed as long-term homeowners.

How do I apply for Chenoa Fund down payment assistance?

To apply, borrowers must work with an FHA-approved lender that participates in the Chenoa Fund program. The lender will assist with the loan application, program selection, and eligibility verification.

Get Started with the Chenoa Fund

The CBC Mortgage Chenoa Fund makes it easier to buy a home by providing down payment assistance that fits a variety of financial situations.

With flexible options, no income limits, and funding available year-round, the program helps more buyers qualify for an FHA loan and afford their home purchase.

To get started, connect with an FHA-approved lender offering the Chenoa Fund, check your eligibility, and explore which assistance option works best for you.

With the right support, homeownership could be closer than you think.