Pathways to Homeownership through Government Resources

Spring cleaning often begins with decluttering – removing obstacles and creating space for growth. Similarly, government housing assistance programs aim to remove the barriers to housing stability, by ensuring that people have access to safe, decent, and affordable housing options.

June 4, 2024

Source: Benefits.gov

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers a wide range of programs designed to provide housing assistance to individuals and families in need. These programs come in various forms, including public housing, rental assistance, homeownership counseling services, and more. In this article, we’re highlighting a few of the programs available through HUD that help promote housing stability.

Public Housing Program

HUD’s Public Housing Program provides affordable rental housing to low-income individuals and families. Public housing units are owned and managed by local Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) and offer safe, decent, and sanitary housing for eligible residents. Public housing developments range from high-rise apartments to single-family homes, serving diverse communities and households across the U.S. Rent for public housing is determined by income, and limited to low-income individuals and families. Income limits vary by location and family size, so be sure to check with your local PHA or HUD Field Office to determine your eligibility to apply.

Visit the HUD Public Housing Program page

Housing Counseling Assistance Program

HUD’s Housing Counseling Assistance Program provides free or low-cost counseling services to individuals and families seeking guidance on a variety of housing-related matters. These services are delivered by HUD-approved housing counseling agencies located throughout the country. Counseling sessions cover a wide range of helpful topics, including buying a home, rental assistance, foreclosure avoidance, and more.

Contact a Housing Counselor

Good Neighbor Next Door Program

The Good Neighbor Next Door Program provides homeownership opportunities to professionals who serve their communities, such as law enforcement officers, teachers, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians. The program offers eligible participants the chance to purchase a home located in a HUD-designated revitalization area at a 50% discount from the HUD inventory list price. As participants become neighbors and invested members of their communities, the program’s ripple effects extend far beyond the benefits of individual homeownership.

Learn More about the Good Neighbor Next Door Program

More Resources

For more information on government housing assistance programs and resources, check out the Housing and Public Utilities category on Benefits.gov. To apply for HUD programs and services, visit the hud.gov website.