Ill. officials announce homebuyer assistance

State officials are beefing up assistance available for first-time homebuyers.

A program announced Tuesday helps new homebuyers get $7,500 in down payment help on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage. It builds on existing programs, including those for veterans.

Illinois Housing Development Authority spokeswoman Cami Freeman says “Welcome Home Illinois” has a better interest rate and more down payment help than previously offered…Please click here to read the full Associated Press story in the Times. For more information about the loan program, click here.