During the gathering of data for the 2023-2028 5-year Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS), information about the HOME Grant from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) in the North East Texas/ ATCOG region came to light. In the past five years seven of our nine counties have participated in the HOME program. This program is not a competitive grant process! Any of the ATCOG region cities or counties that wish to participate in the program are eligible.
Over the past five years approximately $18,421,000 has been expended to provide decent, safe, sanitary and affordable housing for eligible home-owners. TDHCA has an annual allocation and it has been sufficient to meet the demand. Funding amounts change as well as demands. This is a great program to offer eligible home-owners that live in sub-standard homes.
How the program works. Cities receive a grant from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs to provide decent, safe, sanitary and affordable housing for low-income homeowners. Homeowners who are eligible for the HOME Program will have their existing house or mobile home demolished and a new home built at the same site. There is no cost to the homeowner and assistance is provided in the form of a five-year grant or a 15-year deferred forgivable loan. If the homeowner sells their home before that time period has ended, they must repay a portion of the cost. They also are responsible for maintaining insurance on their house and continuing to stay current on their property taxes during that time period. Live within city limits. Own your home and have a warranty deed in your name. Live in a substandard home. Have a household income within the limits listed. Be current on property taxes. Have no outstanding liens or encumberances on property. Able to relocate while the new house is being built.
