First time home buyer refers to someone who’s buying a home for the very first time. If you own a home and have sold it a long time ago. You are not a first-time homebuyer. If your husband or wife owns a home in her name. You are not a first-time homebuyer. To apply for a government first-time homebuyer assistance /grant program you might still qualify. If the last time, you own home more than 3 years ago. You might still qualify. For qualification of the program please consult directly with the program provider.