Homebuyer Programs

If you are a homebuyer it is very important that you work with a reputable and knowledgeable REALTOR® and mortgage lender. The reason is there are homebuyer programs available that could help you in the purchase of your home. Many homebuyers will purchase a home without knowing about these programs and not receive additional assistance that could potentially save money.
As an example, the City Of Ft. Worth has a Homebuyer Assistance Program (HAP). If you are a first time homebuyer or have not owned a home within the last three years then you could qualify for financial assistance in the form of Closing Cost Assistance and Deferred Payment Loans for homes purchased in the City Of Ft. Worth. Assistance in HAP is up to $14,999 and available to qualified households with incomes that are 80% or below HUD’s Annual Income Limits.
Some of the requirements for the property to be eligible under HAP is it must be located in the city limits of Ft. Worth, the property cannot be located in an airport clear zone or on a toxic waste, the property must be a single-family unit and HOME regulations require that the sales price not exceed 95% of the area median sales price.

HUD has the Good Neighbor Next Door Program. Law enforcement officers, pre-Kindergarten through 12th grade teachers and firefighters/emergency medical technicians qualify. If you purchase a HUD home in a designated HUD revitalized area then you could receive a substantial incentive in the form of a discount of 50% from the list price of the home. As an example, a home listed at $100,000 would be purchased at $50,000. In return you must commit to live in the property for 36 months as your sole residence.

There is also the Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation (TSAHC) programs that target first time homebuyers. The programs offered are specific to individuals residing in Texas and includes the Home Sweet Texas Program, Professional Educators Program, and the Homes For Texas Heroes Home Loan Program. These programs provide a 4.50% rate on a 30-year fixed rate FHA, VA, or USDA loans to eligible homebuyers.
To be eligible for these programs a homebuyer must be:
• Professional Educator: A full-time classroom teacher, teacher’s aide, school librarian, school nurse, school counselor, or an allied health or nursing faculty member or,
• Homes For Texas Heroes: A full-time paid firefighter, peace officer, corrections officer, juvenile corrections officer, county jailer, EMS personnel, or public security officer or,
• Home Sweet Texas Loan: A household whose income does not exceed 80% AFMI.
• A first time homebuyer or have not had owned a home in a targeted area within 3 years.
• Reside in Texas.
• Meet the income and home purchase price limits.
• Occupy the home as a primary residence.
• Complete a HUD-approved homebuyer education course.
There are additional programs available so stay in contact with your REALTOR® and lender and take full advantage of all of the opportunities.