Key Government Programs and WHEDA Loans for First-Time Home Buyers

The Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) offers some of the most powerful tools available to first-time home buyers in De Pere, WI. These programs designed for purchase of a principal residence include low-cost mortgages paired with down payment and closing costs assistance.

1. WHEDA Advantage Loans (Conventional or FHA)

• 30-year fixed-rate mortgages with competitive rates.
• Available for single-family homes, condos, and even 2-4 unit properties.
• FHA loans are especially helpful if your credit score is a bit lower.
• No requirement to be a first-time buyer to use the loan itself, but you’ll complete home buyer education if this is your first time.

2. WHEDA Easy Close Advantage Down Payment Assistance

• Up to 6% of the purchase price (minimum $1,000) as a second loan.
• Use it for your down payment, closing costs, or prepaid expenses.
• 10-year term with monthly payments at the same interest rate as your first mortgage.
• Often allows 100% financing—meaning you could close with almost no cash out of pocket.

3. WHEDA Capital Access Down Payment Assistance (Limited Availability!)

• A fixed $7,500 second mortgage at 0% interest with no monthly payments.
• The loan is repaid only when you sell or refinance your WHEDA first mortgage.
• Perfect for first-time home buyers who need extra help covering down payment and closing costs.
• Available funds are limited—only 78 loans available starting January 15, 2026, on a first-come, first-served basis. Once they’re gone, the program closes until more funding arrives. Act quickly!

Important eligibility notes for De Pere / Brown County borrowers:

• Your household income must fall within WHEDA’s limits based on the median income for the area. For non-target areas like De Pere (Green Bay is the target area within Brown County), first-time home buyer limits typically allow up to approximately $123,050 for 1-2 person households and $144,450 for 3+ person households (effective May 2025—confirm current limits with your lender as they update regularly).
• The home must be your principal residence and owner-occupied for the life of the loan.
• Purchase price limits are generous (well over $500,000), so most De Pere homes qualify.

Local Payment Assistance Programs in Brown County

WHEDA pairs beautifully with local options through NeighborWorks Green Bay, which serves most of Brown County—including De Pere.

• 0% interest loans of $3,000–$8,000 for down payment and closing costs.
• No monthly payments (repayable only if you stop living in the home).
• Open to first-time and non-first-time buyers.
• Requires homebuyer education through NeighborWorks and at least $1,000 of your own funds toward the purchase.
• Assistance is based on Brown County median income and available funds—contact them early!

These local programs can stack with WHEDA for even more financial assistance.



Who Qualifies as a First-Time Home Buyer?

You qualify if you haven’t owned a principal residence in the last three years. This definition often includes:

• Single parents
• Displaced homemakers
• Individuals who owned a home previously with a former spouse (but no longer do)

Students, veterans, and others may also benefit from additional advantages. Joonago Mortgage Services will review your situation to confirm eligibility.

How Joonago Mortgage Services Makes the Process Easy

At Joonago Mortgage Services, we’re proud to be a trusted local lender helping first-time home buyers in De Pere and across Wisconsin. Our team:

• Guides you through WHEDA loans and payment assistance programs.
• Pre-approves you quickly so you know exactly what you can afford.
• Connects you with home buyer education providers.
• Helps coordinate with programs like NeighborWorks Green Bay.
• Handles everything from application to closing with personalized service.

We know the De Pere market, understand Brown County income guidelines, and stay up-to-date on available funds and government programs so you don’t miss opportunities.

Take the First Step Toward Your De Pere Home Today

Buying your first home in De Pere, WI, is within reach—especially with down payment assistance, WHEDA loans, and closing cost help from programs designed for eligible borrowers like you.



Don’t let down payment worries hold you back. Whether you’re a young professional, single parent, or ready to settle down near the Fox River, Joonago Mortgage Services is here to help you qualify, explore options, and close with confidence.

Contact Joonago Mortgage Services today for a free consultation. Let’s review your situation, check current income limits, and see which payment assistance programs and WHEDA loans you qualify for. Your De Pere dream home is closer than you think!

Call us, visit our website, or schedule your pre-approval appointment online. We’re ready to help first-time home buyers in De Pere achieve homeownership—one house at a time.