text: does anyone know of any grants to help first time homebuyers with down payments or closing costs? i live in chicago, illinois. illinois has a state bond program that will allow a first time home buyer finance the closing costs and allow 100% financing. their interest rates are normally below market allowing more favorable payments. however since this program is state sponsored, you would be required to provide a lot of documentation to determine your eligibility. look on the state website and find information about it under the housing section. hope this helps, contact me directly if you have any questions.