What is the Growing Homeowners Initiative?

A savings and education initiative to help individuals and families turn the dream of purchasing a home into a reality.

How can Growing Homeowners Initiative funds be used?

• GHI assistance funds must be used toward the purchase of a home in Luzerne County.
• The GHI funds are used to cover closing costs up to $7500.
• The Closing Cost assistance is secured by a second mortgage that is forgiven over a five-year period.

How does the Growing Homeowners Initiative work?

Currently, interested people who apply and are determined to be financially within the guidelines must commit to the following:

• Maintaining a savings account with a savings plan for at least a 90-day period. You must save 2 or 3%* of the purchase price for down payment and have 3 months of mortgage payments in reserve at the time of purchase.
• Working with a homeownership specialist to set a goal and develop an action plan on how to achieve the goal.
• The closing cost assistance needed will be determined prior to the purchase of your home and will be provided at closing. The amount will not exceed $7500.
• Attending at least 3 homebuyer readiness workshops including such topics as developing a budget, understanding credit & credit basics, obtaining a mortgage, what to look for when buying a home, etc.

*Depending on household income.

How does someone apply for the Growning Homeowners Initiative?

Basic steps to apply for the initiative are:

• Fill out an application and send it to the HDC office.
• Set up an appointment with a Homeownership Specialist.
• Attend appointment with the Homeownership Specialist; bring the required income verification and identification documents for the entire household.