Step by step

Buy a home with City help

First time homebuyers can get help from the City to buy a home or get downpayment assistance.

You must live at the home that you buy with City help. You are not allowed to rent it out, including on platforms like Airbnb. The entire process of buying a home may take months.

1

Decide if buying a home is right for you

You need to attend an orientation about buying a home with City help. You must also have some savings.

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2

Attend homebuyer education

Cost:

$0.00 to $99.00

Time:

10 hour program

In general, every adult in the household must finish the workshop and homebuyer counseling.

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3

Get a mortgage loan pre-approval letter

Cost:

$0.00 to $50.00

Time:

1 to 2 weeks

When you apply for housing, your pre-approval letter must be dated within the past 120 days.

These approved lenders are familiar with various City housing programs.

Get the list of approved lenders

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4

Apply for housing

Cost:

Free.

Time:

15 minutes

You can apply for specific listings, or you can apply for a downpayment loan on any home.

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5

After you own your home

Every year, we will ask for proof that you are living at the home, and that you have homeowners insurance.

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Last updated March 29, 2024