Employer Assisted Homebuyer Program 
(Live-Work RI)

Live-Work RI Flyer

EAP ​Homebuyers Assisted 

since 2003

The Employer Assisted Homebuyer Program, locally known as Live-Work Rock Island, is considered one of Illinois' longest running, most successful employer-assisted homebuyer programs. Since 2003, Live-Work RI has helped nearly 500 homebuyers purchase homes in every neighborhood within Rock Island city limits. 
At its core, Live-Work Rock Island is simple:

• Help employees become homeowners
• Workforce development tool that strengthens employer recruitment and retention
• Preserve and grow Rock Island’s population base

Live-Work RI provides:

• 5% down payment assistance, based on the home's purchase price
• Up to $1,500 in closing cost assistance

​Requirements:

• Individual must be an employee of a participating employer (Click here for eligible employer list). 
• Purchase a home within Rock Island city limits (zip code 61201)
• Have a household income at or below 120% of the Area Median Income (Click here for income limits).​
• Complete application
• Meet with GROWTH's Housing Manager/HUD-Certified Housing Counselor
• Complete GROWTH's homebuyer education workshop prior to closing on the home (Click here for Homebuyer Class Schedule)
• GROWTH's HUD-Approved homebuyer education consists of one-on-one and group education. This must be done prior to the offer being made on the home, and ensures every buyer understands the homebuyer process and is prepared for long-term homeownership. ​Together, the financial support and counseling reduces upfront costs and help buyers feel informed, confident, and set up for success.​

Average EAP assistance is $5,800 for households earning up to 120% of the IA‑IL Quad Cities Median Income. This MidAmerican employee received $6,500 in EAP down payment assistance.

Friendship Manor employee speaks about the impact Live-Work RI made for her and her family. She was referred to the program by her HR Director, who encouraged her to apply.

Friendship Manor employee speaks about how Live-Work RI helped her buy her first home, and then again when she needed to upsize. It is not a first-time homebuyer program.

Nearly every Rock Island neighborhood includes an EAP-supported homebuyer through Live‑Work RI- helping create confident, informed homeowners set up for long‑term success.

GROWTH welcomed its 900th homebuyer on March 31, 2026, who happened to an EAP Homebuyer, employed at Friendship Manor. The 900th closing is especially meaningful- the home was previously owned by the homebuyer’s grandmother, a meaningful link between homeownership and family legacy.

Step 1:
Complete Application

Apply as soon as you begin thinking seriously about purchase a home. GROWTH is here to guide you through the entire process, from start to finish. GROWTH must approve your application prior to making an offer on a home.

Apply

         Step 2:               
Meet with HUD-Certified Staff

GROWTH, a HUD-Approved Housing Counseling agency, has HUD-certified Housing Counselors that will meet with you and provide you with the financial tools needed to achieve your goal of homeownership. Send an email below to inquire.

Schedule

    Step 3:         
Register for Homebuyer Class

Attending a one-day homebuyer education workshop is required prior to closing on a home. The classes are held once per month and you can submit an email to register for the next available class. There is no cost to attend the homebuyer class.

Register