Are There Local Grants for Teachers and First Responders in East Texas?

If you're a teacher, police officer, firefighter, or healthcare worker in East Texas, you may be eligible for special housing assistance programs designed to support your service. These grants and down payment assistance options can make buying a home more affordable and help you settle into the community you serve.

Bethany Ashby of easttexaslending.com/home often works with frontline professionals and educators who qualify for these programs but don’t know they exist. She says tapping into the right resources can save buyers thousands on upfront costs.

The TSAHC Homes for Texas Heroes Program

One of the best-known resources for East Texas buyers is the Homes for Texas Heroes program, offered by the Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation (TSAHC).

Who Qualifies?

• Public school teachers and aides

• Police officers, EMS personnel, and firefighters

• Correctional officers and jailers

• Nurses, nurse aides, and allied health workers

• Veterans and active-duty military

What It Offers:

• Fixed-rate mortgage loans at competitive interest rates

• Up to 5 percent of the loan amount for down payment or closing costs

• Grants that don’t need to be repaid or forgivable second loans

• Optional Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) for tax savings

Bethany explains that many buyers pair this program with other local incentives to reduce their out-of-pocket expenses even further.

Local Grant Opportunities in East Texas

In addition to statewide programs, some cities and counties in East Texas offer local housing grants or homebuyer assistance:

1. City of Tyler First-Time Homebuyer Program

This program provides up to $16,000 in assistance for qualified buyers purchasing within Tyler city limits. Teachers and first responders who meet the income requirements can often take advantage of these funds to cover part of their down payment and closing costs.

2. East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) Housing Programs

ETCOG works with various counties to support rural housing initiatives. Some of their programs are income-based and may prioritize first responders, teachers, or low-to-moderate income families looking to buy in the region.

Bethany recommends applying early, as these local programs are often first-come, first-served and subject to annual funding.

Can You Combine These Grants with Other Programs?

Yes. In many cases, buyers can stack local grants with state-level assistance like the TSAHC program. For example, you might receive a local grant from the City of Tyler and still qualify for TSAHC’s down payment help. This layered approach can significantly reduce your financial burden when buying a home.

Working with a loan officer who understands these programs is key to making sure everything aligns with your mortgage.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a teacher, nurse, police officer, or firefighter in East Texas, there are grants and housing programs available to support your path to homeownership. Whether you’re buying your first home or relocating to a new community, these resources can make a big difference.

To find out which programs you qualify for and how to apply, connect with Bethany Ashby at easttexaslending.com/home. She’ll guide you through the process and help you maximize every opportunity available.

Sources:
TSAHC.org, City of Tyler, ETCOG.org, TDHCA.state.tx.us, NAR.realtor