Buying a Home in Rock Island
Are you ready to make the move to Rock Island? Or perhaps you are renting in Rock Island and are considering purchasing a home? To support homeownership in Rock Island, Rock Island Economic Growth Corporation (GROWTH) offers many incentives that simply aren't available anywhere else.

GROWTH offers a variety of homebuyer assistance programs for individuals or families wishing to buy a home anywhere within the city limits of Rock Island. GROWTH can provide funds to help with down payment, closing costs, and even improvements to the home after you buy it.

Purchasing a home doesn't have to be complicated! The goal of GROWTH is to make the process as pleasant and understandable as possible. All of GROWTH’s programs include individualized counseling and an educational workshop that will lead you through the process of selecting, purchasing, and maintaining a home.

Funding to support these programs is allocated on a first-come, first-serve basis.

To apply for the homebuyer program, click here for more information.

What Does the Homebuyer Program Offer?
GROWTH's homebuyer programs will provide assistance before, during, and after you purchase your home. The housing staff will help with:

• Understanding the process of purchasing a home.
• Selecting a home that fits your budget.
• Understanding the terminology used by lenders, attorneys, realtors, and appraisers.
• Selecting a participating lender to finance the home.
• Construction expertise for renovation projects.
• Providing qualified contractors to perform renovation projects.

Why Should I Apply for the Homebuyer Program?
Very simply, because you may be eligible for thousands of dollars in assistance for a down payment, closing costs, or renovation costs. Up to $10,000 for down payment and closing costs, and up to $40,000 for improvements could be available.

When Should I Apply?
As soon as you begin thinking seriously about purchasing a home in Rock Island, you should complete an application. GROWTH's housing staff is here to guide you through the entire process, from start to finish. If you wait until after you make an offer, it may be too late.

Do I Have to Get a Home Loan?
You will need to qualify for a first mortgage loan from an approved lender. GROWTH works with homebuyers on a daily basis to help them obtain financing that is affordable and easily understood.

What About a Realtor?
GROWTH strongly encourages you to work with a qualified realtor. Find one that you are comfortable with because he/she can save you a lot of time and money.

How Long Does it Take?
While every situation is unique, GROWTH will typically be able to review your completed application and provide a plan of action within 5 business days. Once approved for the program, offers to purchase a home must allow for 60 days between acceptance of the offer and closing (home purchase).

Homebuyer Applications
Once a completed application has been submitted, GROWTH's housing staff will review it and prepare a customized plan for you to follow in order to purchase a home as quickly as possible. Staff will also schedule a meeting with you to review the plan and help you take steps needed to apply for a first mortgage loan from a participating lender of your choice.

Getting Started
A budget worksheet will help you figure out you budget household expenses. This document is not required, but is recommended as the first stop before considering home ownership. Click here to download the budget worksheet.

What Are the Steps?
GROWTH wants you to have a positive homebuyer experience! While using any of GROWTH's housing programs, it is important to follow the steps outlined on this page.

Questions? Call 309.788.6311 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .