Big Perks for Delaware Heroes and Recent College Grads

At Bond Street Mortgage, we believe those who serve the public and those investing in their education deserve a clear path to homeownership. Delaware offers two powerful specialty programs specifically designed for these groups.

The Delaware Diamonds Home Loan

If you work in a public service or healthcare occupation, you may be eligible for a zero-interest, forgivable second loan of $10,000. Qualifying professions include:

• State of Delaware employees and public or private school employees
• First responders, including police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and EMTs (both full-time and volunteer)
• Active-duty military members and qualified veterans
• Healthcare workers employed by Bayhealth, Beebe, Nemours, St. Francis, Christiana Care, and the VA Hospital

This $10,000 loan balance decreases by 10% for every year you live in the home as your primary residence, meaning it is entirely forgiven after 10 years.

The Homes for Grads Program

If you graduated with a four-year degree or higher within the last three years, the Homes for Grads program offers substantial long-term savings. Eligible borrowers receive a 0.50% reduction on their first mortgage interest rate for the life of the loan.

This discounted rate can also be paired with the DSHA Preferred Plus down payment assistance program, providing a 2% to 5% no-interest second mortgage to help cover your closing costs.

Stacking Benefits with DSHA Programs

In many cases, borrowers using Delaware Diamonds or Homes for Grads can also access other DSHA benefits, such as competitive fixed-rate mortgages and down payment assistance loans. Structuring your financing correctly can dramatically reduce both your upfront and long-term housing costs.

A Bond Street Mortgage advisor can help you confirm your eligibility for each program, compare scenarios, and build a strategy that maximizes your savings while keeping your payment comfortable.