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Community Lending & Homebuyer Programs

Opening doors to homeownership - together.

Get Pre-Approved

At The Equitable Bank, community lending is about more than financing - it’s about helping people find a path forward.

Whether you’re just getting started, working through credit challenges, or exploring available programs, we’re here to guide you.

Where are you starting from?

I need help with down payment or closing costs

Explore grant programs

I’m not sure I qualify or have credit concerns

Learn about credit building options

I want to understand the process before I start

Find homebuyer education resources

Meet our Community Lending Team

Veron Gray

Veron Gray

NMLS ID# 491622
Whitefish Bay | Wauwatosa
414.587.3663

| Apply With Veron

About Veron

Gail Milani

Gail Milani

NMLS ID# 491621
2290 North Mayfair Road
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
414.587.7061

| Apply With Gail

About Gail

Tamara Castle

Tamara Castle

NMLS ID# 1568093
705 E. Silver Spring Drive
Whitefish Bay, WI 53217
262.505.4017

| Apply With Tamara

About Tamara

Down Payment Assistance Programs

We participate in programs designed to help income-eligible buyers with upfront costs like down payment and closing expenses.

Available programs may include:

  • Down Payment Plus (DPP) – up to $10,000
  • Home Consortium DPA – up to $10,000

As outlined in our program details :

  • Funds can often be used for down payment and closing costs
  • Many programs are forgivable over time (typically 5 years)
  • Homebuyer education is usually required
  • Some programs are available beyond first-time buyers
Household Size 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Household Income* $60,700 $69,400 $78,050 $86,700 $93,650 $100,600 $107,550 $114,450

*Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Washington & Waukesha County

Programs are limited and subject to availability.


Affordable Loan Options

In addition to grants, we offer loan programs designed to make homeownership more accessible:

  • HomeReady® / Home Possible® loans
  • As little as 3% down
  • Flexible income and eligibility guidelines

We’ll help you understand what you qualify for and what makes the most sense.


Credit Builder Loan Program

Start where you are

If you’re working to build or rebuild credit, this program is designed to help you move forward.

How it works:

  • We lend you a set amount (starting at $500+)
  • Funds are placed into a certificate of deposit (CD) in your name
  • You make monthly payments
  • Payment history is reported to credit bureaus

You build credit while building savings at the same time.


Homebuyer Education & Community Resources

We partner with trusted local organizations to provide education, guidance, and support throughout the homebuying process.

Organizations we work with:

Homebuyer education is often required for grant programs - and is one of the most valuable steps you can take.

Learn more before you start

The Smart Start Podcast

Starting Strong: A Beginner’s Guide to Buying Your First Home

Real conversations designed to help you understand the process and your options.

Listen to the episode