Real Estate Rebates for
First Responders
Exclusive Savings for First Responders
First responders can enjoy substantial savings when buying, selling, or refinancing a home through our program and trusted real estate partners.
Buying or Selling a Home
The average savings for firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, police officers, and other first responders is $2,850 on a single transaction — and you can double that if you buy and sell through the program!
Mortgage Incentives When Buying
Our trusted lender network offers lender credits of up to $1,800, in addition to the 25% rebate you’ll receive from your Realtor in our program.
Refinancing
If you refinance your home with a lender in our network, you’ll also be eligible for the same $1,800 in lender credits.
These savings are our way of saying thank you for your service and dedication to keeping our communities safe — while making homeownership more affordable for first responder families.
Let’s Get Started!
How We Help First Responders
Exclusive Real Estate Rebates
When you buy or sell a home with an agent in The CARE Network, they’ll rebate 25% of their commission back to you at closing!* For an average transaction, that’s $2,885 in your pocket!
*Conditions apply
Mortgage and Other Business Rebates
Need a mortgage, or plan to refinance your home? We have a network of lenders who give up to $1,800 in lender credits!
We also have a network of home inspectors, roofers, plumbers, and many others – all who offer exclusive discounts for active military families and veterans.
Your Choice of Any Agent
Our program is unique because we allow you to work with any agent you choose, whether it’s one of our preferred agents, a “RamseyTrusted” agent, or your next door neighbor!*
*Conditions apply. RamseyTrusted a trademark owned by Ramsey Solutions. It is used for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What first responder mortgage programs are available?
First responders (firefighters, police, EMTs/paramedics, 911 dispatch, corrections, etc.) can access Real estate rebates from participating agents (a portion of the commission given back as a credit at closing or a post-closing rebate, depending on state rules). Lender credits to offset closing costs (subject to loan program limits). Discounted professional fees (attorney/title, inspections, services) through partner networks. Down payment assistance (DPA) and grants from state housing agencies, cities/counties, and select nonprofits—often stackable with the rebate if they fit contribution limits. VA loans (for first responders who are also eligible veterans) with $0 down, no PMI, and competitive rates.
Are there first responder down payment assistance programs near me?
Tip: Search down payment assistance programs in your area and filter for official government or HFA pages; many programs require income limits, purchase price caps, owner-occupancy, and homebuyer education.
Are there qualifications for local first responder mortgage discounts?
Yes—requirements vary by program, but commonly include: Proof of service (ID badge or employment verification; retirees may qualify). Owner-occupancy (you’ll live in the home as a primary residence). Loan program guidelines (credit, income, debt-to-income, property type). DPA/grant rules (income and price caps, location restrictions, class completion). Disclosure/compliance (rebates/credits listed on the Closing Disclosure; some states require post-closing payment rather than a credit at closing).
Is there any help available to first responders for buying a home?
Absolutely. First responders can combine: agent rebate/closing credits, local DPA/grants (where available), seller concessions or builder incentives (when negotiated and allowed by your loan), and eligible VA benefits (if you’re also a veteran). A good next step is to get matched with a participating agent and lender who work with first-responder programs—they’ll verify eligibility, line up stackable savings, and make sure everything fits your loan’s credit limits and appears correctly on the Closing Disclosure.
The CARE Network is a real estate company based in South Carolina. All referral fees go through NorthGroup Real Estate – Nick Thiele (License #142366).
Cashback savings are available in most states, but not all. You are not required to work with any particular agent to be eligible for our Cashback Savings, however, your real estate agent must approve of the savings prior to signing any agreements with that agent. Savings are typically calculated as a % of your agent’s commission, so factors including, but not limited to, the negotiated commission percentage and new construction incentives, may influence the final savings amount.