Down Payment Assistance Program

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