Buying a home is a big a decision and for a first time home buyer it can be an overwhelming and complex process. A number of first time home buyers may need a little extra help in reaching their goal of buying a first home and there are a number of organizations available in the greater Chicago area that might be able to help.

Listed below are a few places to look for help in the decision making process as well as financial assistance.

Chicago City Mortgage Program

Oak Park: Home Buyers Assistance

IDHA First Time Home Buyer Program

HUD - Cities that offer home buying assistance programs

HUD - Public Houseing Vouchers for Homeownership

As with any program there will be certain qualifications that you will have to meet and the application process will include the following steps:

1. Pre-approval

2. Loan Application (see How to Prepare for Your Mortgage Lender for more information)

3. Loan Processing

4. Closing

For more information regarding first time home buyer assistance programs visit the websites listed above or visit the Greater Chicago Housing and Community Development Website for a listing of additional programs.