In an effort to increase homeownership opportunities in Hartford, the City of Hartford, Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac and Housing and Urban Development (HUD), together with local mortgage lenders created HouseHartford.  This program offers home buyers either mortgage interest rate buydowns or downpayment and closing cost assistance, for purchasing 1-4 family homes.  HouseHartford can provide an opportunity for persons and families to purchase homes in Hartford for their primary residence who without such assistance would not be able to acquire their own homes.

What Type Of Properties Are Eligible?

1-4 family homes and condominium units located in the City of Hartford.

Who Can Apply?

Low and moderate-income potential homeowners can apply for assistance under this program.  There are, however, program restrictions based upon the total annual household income of the applicant.

For a single-family property or condominium unit the total annual household income of the homebuyer cannot exceed the following income limits shown by household size.  These maximum income limits are established by HUD and are based upon 80% of the Hartford Area Median Family Income:

Box #1

HouseHartford at a Glance

Downpayment and Closing Cost Assistance

Borrowers at or Below 80% HAMFI

#Units: Single-Family through Four-Family and Condominium.  City Contribution: Up to 7% of purchase price*

* Program Maximum - $11,999 Downpayment Assistance, plus up to $3,000 in approved closing costs - Total allocation not to exceed $14,999.  Must utilize HouseHartford participating lender.

Purchase Mortgage Rate Buydown

Borrowers at or Below 80% HAMFI

Program: HAMFI Adjusted 0% - 50% Home Mortgage

#Units: Single-Family through Four-Family and Condominium.

City Contribution: $14,999*

Program: The HAMFI Adjusted 51%-80% Home Mortgage

#Units: Single-Family through Four-Family and Condominium.

City Contribution: $10,000*

* Must utilize HouseHartford participating lender.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.  Is HouseHartford assistance available to buy homes outside of Hartford?

No, HouseHartford is a City of Hartford program providing assistance to citizens that want to purchase a home within the City of Hartford.

2.  Is HouseHartford available to Hartford residents only?

No, residents from other towns can apply for assistance to purchase a home in Hartford.

3.  What types of properties are eligible for assistance?

One-four (1-4) family homes and condominium units.

4.  Who can apply?

Generally speaking low & moderate income potential homebuyers can apply.

5.  What is the maximum amount of homebuyer assistance that I could receive?

Depending on buyer’s total annual household income, the program maximum is $14,999.

6.  Do I have to use my own funds on the home that you are purchasing?

No, applicants are not required to put money down.

7.  Are HouseHartford funds provided as a grant?

No, funds are loaned to buyers and are secured by a 2^nd mortgage lien on the property.  Loans are forgiven at the rate of 20% per year if you maintain the property as your primary residence.

8.  Can investor landlords apply for assistance through this program?

No, buyers must maintain the property as their primary residence for a full five (5) year affordability period.

9.  Are there any other special eligibility requirements?

Yes, applicants must successfully complete an 8-Hour Homebuyer Education Class.

10.  How do I apply for HouseHartford assistance?

Contact one of the program’s participating lenders.  HouseHartford lenders accept your application for assistance, in addition to facilitating your loan closing.  

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Owen Humphries, Project Manager
City of Hartford
Department of Development Services
Housing and Property Management Division
250 Constitution Plaza
Hartford, CT 06103
860-757-9035