Resources for Individuals

What you need to know about government funding for a new home:

The federal government does not give housing grants directly to individuals. The funds are given to states and certain municipalities, who in turn, distribute the funds to residents.
No grant will cover 100% of the cost of a house.
The government will not give a grant to anyone who cannot use it toward a mortgage; therefore, qualification for a mortgage is necessary.
Any program the federal government has to assist first-time buyers in a home purchase will require that you attend a HUD approved Housing Counseling class. They help people get their finances organized so they will qualify for a mortgage.

Local Resources

Contact your local government for help - directory of official state, county and local government websites.

HUD-approved Housing Counseling - HUD funds housing counseling agencies throughout the country who can give you advice on buying a home, renting, defaults, foreclosures, credit issues and reverse mortgages.

Local Homebuyer Programs - in addition to HUD's mortgage insurance programs, there may be programs sponsored by your state or local government or other organizations.

Low Downpayment Information - will facilitate approval of downpayment assistance through secondary financing programs and will permit nonprofit and government agencies greater flexibility in providing downpayment and other assistance to prospective homeowners through secondary financing.

Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) - allows very low-income families to choose and lease or purchase safe, decent, and affordable privately owned rental housing.

Starting your own business - Be prepared and understand the basics from the Small Business Administration.

Benefits.gov - helps citizens access government benefit eligibility information through a free, confidential, and easy-to-use online screening tool. After answering some basic questions, you will get a a report listing the benefit programs for which you may be eligible.