The City of Birmingham Community Development Department is developing its 2025-2030 Consolidated Plan, and we need your input! This plan will guide how federal funding is used to support affordable housing, economic development, public services, and community improvements. Your feedback will help shape the priorities for our neighborhoods and ensure resources are allocated where they are needed most. Please take a few minutes to complete our community survey and share your thoughts on the challenges and opportunities in our city, click here.

Down Payment Assistance Program

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Program Overview

The purpose of the Ready to Own Program is to make homeownership more affordable for families through homebuyer assistance to qualified households purchasing a home within the City Limits of Birmingham.

  • Homebuyer assistance of up to $10,000
  • 5-year forgivable loan at 0% interest (with restrictive covenant)
  • Funds can go towards down payment, closing costs & interest rate buydowns
  • Property MUST be purchased within the city limits of Birmingham
  • Homebuyer Education is required in becoming a program participant.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Borrower MUST have minimum 600 credit score
  • Household income must not exceed the current HUD income limit at 80% of AMI
  • Homebuyers must complete a homeownership education course
  • Must have a signed purchase agreement before funds are reserved

Neighborhood Housing Services Role

  • Client Intake
  • Case management of clients
  • Homebuyer education
  • Facilitation of closings
  • Community seminars
  • Employee seminars

Our Partners

Participating Lending Partners:

Lenders are providing matching funds between $7,000 – $10,000 dollars

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