Graduating college is a major milestone, but what if it could also be your key to buying a new home? The Grants for Grads program is here to help recent graduates step into the housing market with confidence. With attractive interest rates, minimal upfront costs, and a chance to build equity while paying less than you might for rent, this program offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get into homeownership.
Are You Eligible? Let’s Find Out!
Even if you don’t qualify we recommend you keep reading because this could positively impact someone close to you or a potential client if you are a realtor.
To personally qualify for the Grants for Grads program, you need to meet the following criteria:
Graduation Date: You must have graduated within the last five years. This could positively impact someone you know or a potential client if you are a realtor.
School Type: Your diploma must be from an accredited post-secondary education institution—basically, any college, university, or technical school that’s recognized by the Department of Education.
Income Limit: Your household income must be below $105,600.
What Makes Grants for Grads a Game-Changer?
The Grants for Grads program offers a 5.5% fixed interest rate on a 30-year loan—an absolute steal in a world where mortgage rates are often well above 6%. And while most of us would gladly sign in blood for that kind of stability, it’s worth noting that you’re not locked in forever. If rates dip below 5.5% (and we all cross our fingers), you can always refinance later. Yes, your dream home and future financial flexibility can coexist.
This program doesn’t just reduce monthly costs; it lowers the upfront barrier to entry to homeownership:
Example New Home Price: $274,900
Earnest Money: $1,000
- Closing Costs: Just $756!
That’s less than the price of a new iPhone! For whatever reason, TikToks are funnier in a home that you own. That’s just science.
Monthly Mortgage Payment: $2,112 (which includes property taxes at $4,000/year and homeowner’s insurance at $1,500/year).
All totaling to a monthly payment that is comparable to, or even lower than, many rental rates in Sioux Falls.
But here’s the real advantage: each payment helps you build equity, meaning you’re increasing your ownership stake in your home over time. Instead of paying off someone else’s mortgage, you’re investing in your own future.
Why Buy New Construction with Empire Homes?
Choosing an Empire home with the Grants for Grads program means you’re investing in a brand-new construction tailored for today’s lifestyle.
Modern Features: Enjoy efficient layouts, durable appliances, and custom finishes—no drafty windows or outdated quirks here.
Energy Efficiency: Designed to save you money with lower utility bills month after month.
Minimal Maintenance: Built with the latest materials and backed by warranties, so your weekends are yours to enjoy.
Accessible Pricing: Empire Homes offers pricing in line with the $274,900 example, combining affordability with exceptional quality.
A Limited-Time Opportunity
The Grants for Grads program isn’t forever—it’s only available while funds last, and current projections suggest they may run out by March 2025. If you’ve been thinking about taking the leap into homeownership, now is the time to act.
We get it—buying a home is a big step, but you don’t have to do it alone. The team at Empire Homes is here to guide you through every part of the process. Got questions? We’ve got answers—and if we don’t, we have a rolodex of experts who do. Just to clarify for anyone who's graduated in the last five years: a rolodex is kind of like if your phone contacts and a rotating file holder had a baby. Either way, we have all the connections you need to help you find your way to homeownership!
Reach out today to learn how you can take advantage of the 5.5% interest rate with Grants for Grads and secure your dream home in Sioux Falls. Why keep renting when you can lock in a great rate and start building your future in a place that's truly yours?