Associated Press - September 24, 2009 1:24 PM ET

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (AP) - The deadline for getting government help in buying a home in Linn, Johnson or Washington Counties is less than a week away.

The federally-funded program offers 30% down payment assistance for new construction outside Iowa City and Cedar Rapids city limits.

According to Tracey Achenbach of the Housing Trust Fund of Johnson County the intent of the program is to replace housing units that are being torn down by the flood. She says the agency hasn't received the number of applications that was expected.

Flood victims will be given preference, but anyone who meets the income guidelines of no more than $68,400 for a family of 3 can apply for the program.

A $54,000 grant comes in the form of a loan that is forgiven after the recipient lives in the home for five years.

Information from: The Gazette, http://www.gazetteonline.com/

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