Down payment assistance cannot exceed 50% of the cost of the home including closing costs. Value of land owned or given may be applied toward client’s minimum cash participation. Construction contracts must be “turnkey” form, with floor plans, cost of materials and labor, and statement of no changes once submitted. Land owned at time of application will not be included in contract cost, but any financing payoff would be included. This applies only to site-built homes. Must attend Home Owner Course prior to closing of loan. In case of owner/seller financing, extra protection against default may be required placing the S.H.I.P. lien in first position priority, and the seller/financer in the subordinate lien position. Buyer must be a first-time home buyer. Applicants are eligible for SHIP assistance only twice in a lifetime. Program funds cannot be used towards debt consolidation, pay-down of debt, or any existing debt or judgment payoff other than an existing mortgage encumbering the property.