First Time Home Buyers Program

Wayne County offers first time homebuyers down payment and closing cost assistance when purchasing a home in any of the 37 participating communities. The assistance comes in the form of an interest-free deferred loan that is due upon the sale of the property by the loan recipient. For an existing property, the loan amount is $5,000. For a newly constructed home, the loan amount is $10,000.

Each homebuyer must complete a home ownership counseling program in order to be eligible for assistance. Currently Wayne County has a contract with the National Faith Homebuyers Program to provide a series of classes in credit, buying a home, qualifying for a mortgage, home maintenance, and other related topics. Each potential homeowner earns a certificate of completion after a series of classes. First time homebuyers are defined as a purchaser who has not owned a home within the last three years. Interested person should contact National Faith Community Homebuyers at (313) 255-9500 to enroll in the program.

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Rental Housing Development Program

Wayne County can provide gap financing for the development of newly constructed or rehabilitated rental projects serving very-low income households and special needs groups such as: seniors, homeless, or the disabled throughout the 37 participating communities. Typically these are projects that primarily supported through subsidies from either HUD Section 202, 811 or Supportive Housing Programs; Low Income Housing Tax Credits from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority; or other similar funding agencies. HOME Funds can be used to fill a gap in financing of up to $500,000. All projects are required to achieve an Energy Star certification.Developers interested in participating in the program are required to complete a HOME Program Application. Applicants must have site control in order to be considered for funding. The County's contribution may be in the form of a loan or a grant to the project, however it will be secured through a second mortgage to guarantee that the units remain affordable to very-low income households throughout the HUD required affordability period.Organizations interested in participating in the program are encouraged to consult with the Housing Division in advance of completing the HOME Intake Application.