The Welcome Home Funds from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Cincinnati will become available, by reservation only, beginning March 17 and continuing until the funds are gone. These grant funds can be used for closing costs and down payment assistance for several other unique mortgage lending programs that also will assist first-time buyers. Closing costs are costs associated with the loan closing, and the down payment is the part of the purchase price of a property the buyer pays in cash and does not finance with a mortgage loan. With a stellar credit history, you can qualify for 100 percent financing typically at a slightly higher rate than conforming rates. With a blemished credit history, 100 percent financing can be available, but the rates are higher, depending on the amount of late credit. read more