Ingham County homebuyer assistance limited to new builds

Ingham County officials announced that funding for the county’s Down Payment Assistance Program for homes purchased on the open market was exhausted as of October 1. The program, which offers eligible homebuyers up to $30,000 in zero-interest second mortgages, is currently limited to newly constructed or rehabilitated homes supported by the county’s Housing Trust Fund.

State Senator Sarah Anthony secured $1.5 million in state funding to support the county’s Housing Trust Fund and expand homeownership assistance. The assistance is available to households earning no more than 80% of the area’s median income, with a 2026 limit of $57,500 for a single person. The loan can be forgiven after seven years if the homeowner meets program requirements, including living in the home as their primary residence.

Additional program funding is expected in early 2027. Assistance is provided on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to first-generation homebuyers. Residents can learn more about eligibility and applications through the Capital Area Housing Partnership, which administers the program.

Read the full story at wkar.org.