Forgivable Loans Paired with Traditional Mortgages

NFC offers what they call the “Advantage Loan”—a traditional mortgage paired with a forgivable loan of up to $10,000 (or up to $15,000 in Cedar Rapids) to support home repairs or purchases.

Funds are forgiven gradually (e.g., 20% per year over five years), provided the homeowner remains in residence.

Flexible Down Payment Assistance

Through the Neighborhood Reinvest program, eligible homebuyers (at or below 100% of area median income) receive a $10,500 deferred loan at 0% interest, repayable only when the home is sold or refinanced. NFC may also provide additional forgivable closing cost assistance—up to $2,500.

Multiple Program Streams:

Purchase, Refinance, Improvement

NFC supports homeownership in several ways:

Purchase loans with subsidy bundles

Refinancing to manage debt plus upgrades

Home improvement loans, including renovation and energy-efficient upgrades like HVAC or solar systems—especially helpful for maintaining and enhancing property value.

Targeted Deferred Loan Opportunities

For homeowners earning under 80% of area median income, NFC offers the Polk County Large 

Renovation Program—up to $50,000 in deferred loans, forgiven over time, to restore safe and sustainable living conditions.

Equity, Inclusion & Vibrant Partnerships

NFC champions equity-driven homeownership by collaborating with community-based organizations, cities, lenders, and neighborhood associations. They intentionally build a diverse team and create inclusive service experiences.

Community Outreach & Local Impact

Neighborhood Revitalization Focus

NFC works hand-in-hand with residents, government entities, and local businesses to spark revitalization in Polk County neighborhoods through strategic financing and neighborhood partnerships.

Collaborative Implementation

NFC actively partners with Invest DSM, city-led programs, Habitat for Humanity, ION (Improving Our Neighborhoods), and others to expand reach and resources—especially in areas designated as Special Investment Districts (SIDs).

Lending Area Mapping & Accessibility

NFC provides an interactive lending-area map for Polk County, helping residents check eligibility and tailor their approach by neighborhood.

On-the-Ground Presence

With an office at 4908 Franklin Avenue in Des Moines, NFC offers in-person loan origination services, homebuyer education, contractor referrals, and counseling—available in English and Spanish.

Genuine Success Stories

Real homeowner experiences


“We bought our home 10 years ago with NFC. It helped with closing, and we got a $10,000 forgivable home improvement loan... Every 10 years, you can reapply for a forgivable loan…”


“I used NFC loans two different times to help pay for a New garage & roof at my first home and Solar panels at my current home. Great experience both times, really great program.”

Got question give Mark a call at 515.246.0010