Housing and Community Development Department

Press Release

New and Improved Homebuyer Assistance Program

August 25, 2015 -- The American dream of owning a home just got easier, thanks to the City of Houston Housing and Community Development Department’s (HCD) recently revamped Homebuyer Assistance Program (HAP). The HAP now offers greater efficiency and flexibility to eligible low- to moderate-income first-time homebuyers in the City of Houston and more opportunities to mortgage lenders.

Less restrictive guidelines have created a prime opportunity to reinvigorate the program and allow Houston residents to capitalize on the city’s robust real estate market. 

Applications are now processed electronically to expedite response time and allow applicants to be notified of their eligibility within 30 days. Applicants have the flexibility to work with the bank or lender of their choice whereas lenders previously had to be an authorized HAP partner.

The HAP provides financial assistance through federal grants to help offset homebuying costs such as down payment and closing costs. Eligibility is based upon the applicant’s income, ability to obtain a mortgage loan and ability to meet the program guidelines. “The changes we have made to the HAP accurately reflect the original vision of this program and what it stands for,” said Brandi Sullivan, the program’s administration manager. “These changes allow us to have a smoother process where we can assist homebuyers more quickly.”

HCD believes the streamlined process will get more first-time low- to moderate-income homebuyers into homes.

The program is now accepting applications. For program guidelines and eligibility requirements, visit www.houstontx.gov/housing/hap.html or call 832.394.6200.