Resources for Individuals

Information by State  Print version

While HUD does not offer direct grants or loans to individuals, we do work through local governments and non-profit organizations to make financial assistance and counseling available.

There are some things you should know about government funding of 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.

Below are some resources that may be of assistance.

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

Housing Counseling - listing of HUD-approved housing counseling agencies! 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.

American Dream Downpayment Initiative (ADDI) - ADDI will provide funds to all fifty states and to local participating jurisdictions that have a population of at least 150,000 or will receive an allocation of at least $50,000 under the ADDI formula.

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.

Home Improvement Help - facts and the pitfalls of home improvements.

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

Mortgage Programs - there are many laws that protect you from scams, unnecessary expenses, and discrimination in the process of home buying. Know your rights!

Starting your own business - starting a business can be an exciting venture offering many rewards. However, you must be prepared and you must understand the basics. The Small Business Administration's website provides valuable information.

GovBenefits - GovBenefits.gov helps citizens access government benefit eligibility information through a free, confidential, and easy-to-use online screening tool. After answering some basic questions, the user receives a customized report listing the benefit programs for which the user, or person for whom he or she is entering information, may be eligible.