City offers new HOME Program for low-income residents

The City of Pittsburg recently announced the startup of a new opportunity for low-income homeowners in the area called the HOME Program. In this program, eligible homeowners have the opportunity to trade in substandard living for a newly constructed home.

The HOME Program is funded by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs and provides decent, safe, sanitary, and affordable housing for low-income homeowners. If a homeowner is eligible for the HOME Program, their existing house or mobile home is demolished and a new home is built on the same site.

To qualify for the program, homeowners must fit specific criteria. Homeowners must live with Pittsburg city limits, live in a substandard home, own a house and have a warranty deed with their name on it, be current on all property taxes, have no outstanding liens or encumbrances on their property, and be willing to relocate while their new house is being built.

In addition to this criterion, income limits also apply. Income limits are determined by family size. A family of one can bring in no more than $33,000 per year to be eligible for the program. A family of two can make up to $37,700; a family of three can bring in a maximum income of $42,400. Details on income requirements for larger families can be found at https:// bit.ly/PittsburgHOMEApp.

The homeowner’s 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 ends, they must repay a portion of the cost. Homeowners are responsible for maintaining insurance on their homes and continuing to stay current on their property taxes during that time period.

“We are proud to offer our low-income homeowners the opportunity to apply for the HOME Program,” said the city. To learn more and apply online, visit the web address given above. For a paper application, visit Pittsburg City Hall or email ashley.boyles@kbbhomegrants.com.

All applications will be dependent on the availability of funds. Individuals that may require special assistance, such as persons with special needs, language interpretation needs, elderly or disabled, please contact City Hall to request accommodations.