SAN ANTONIO, TX (August 13, 2025) – SWBC Mortgage Corporation is proud to announce the continued success of its Homeownership Expansion Loan Program (HELP™), which has already helped hundreds of families and individuals achieve the dream of homeownership. Since its launch, the program has provided more than $2.3 million in down payment assistance and supported the closing of 487 home loans across the country.
HELP™ is a grant program designed to reduce the upfront costs of purchasing a home. Available to both first-time and repeat homebuyers, the program offers a grant of up to 2% of the home’s purchase price (up to $5,000) when the buyer contributes at least 1% toward the down payment. First-time homebuyers meeting a 50% Area Median Income (AMI) may also qualify for an additional $2,500 in assistance.
Unlike a loan, the grant does not require repayment, making it a powerful tool for increasing access to homeownership. Eligibility is based on income, with assistance available to borrowers earning 80% or less of the area median income (AMI). Borrowers receive a Form 1099 for grant funds utilized. Applicants should consult a tax preparer to determine whether the funds may be taxable.
“This program is about making homeownership more accessible, whether it’s your first home or your next,” said Susan Stewart, CEO of SWBC Mortgage. “We’re giving buyers a head start without burdening them with extra debt.”
Program Benefits Include:
- Up to $5,000 in down payment assistance
- No repayment of assistance funds required (funds may be taxable)
- Available to eligible first-time and repeat buyers
- Backed by conventional loan financing
- Lower mortgage insurance (MI) compared to many other loan options
- Temporary buydown options available for reduced initial monthly payments
- No interest rate difference if the buyer uses the grant
This innovative grant solution offers financial flexibility and support, helping to reduce some of the upfront challenges of home buying.
For more information about the SWBC Mortgage's Homeownership Expansion Loan Program™ and to see if you qualify, please visit our website.
About SWBC Mortgage Corporation
SWBC Mortgage Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of SWBC, is a full-service mortgage lender approved by FNMA, FHLMC, and GNMA. Headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, SWBC Mortgage has been providing mortgage banking services since 1988. Through the changing landscape of the mortgage industry, the company has remained committed to service, integrity, and stability while growing to serve communities and borrowers in 44 states + D.C. Today, SWBC Mortgage is consistently recognized as one of the top 50 lenders in America and is home to numerous top-ranked originators. Building on a rich history of success, SWBC Mortgage has highly experienced team members who leverage streamlined digital tools to deliver efficient service and support, while providing a personal, experienced touch to the mortgage process. SWBC Mortgage provides innovative technology and resources built to streamline the mortgage process and provide support from application through servicing.
About SWBC
As a diversified financial services company, SWBC provides financial institutions, businesses, and individuals with a wide range of insurance, mortgages, wealth management, employee benefits, and more. Headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, SWBC has partners and divisions across all 50 states and Mexico and manages businesses worldwide. No matter how wide its reach, SWBC always listens to our customers’ needs, analyzes their current situations, and recommends customized solutions. For more information about our innovative approach to personalized service, visit SWBC’s website.
SWBC Mortgage Corporation, NMLS #9741. Check licensing at www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org. AZ BK #0950067; Licensed by the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act #4130449; Licensed by the N.J. Dept. of Banking and Insurance. Massachusetts Mortgage lender & Mortgage Broker License MC9741. Loans subject to credit and property approval, restrictions and conditions may apply. Not all loan programs or loan amounts available in all areas. Programs and guidelines subject to change without notice. Corporate office: 9311 San Pedro Ave., Ste. 100, San Antonio, TX 78216. © 2025 SWBC. All rights reserved.