Gainesville gets $300k to aid first-time homebuyers

GAINESVILLE - The City of Gainesville recently received $300,000 from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs to provide homeowner repair and down payment/closing cost assistance to first time homebuyers, and announced guidelines for use of the money.

Gainesville Housing Programs Manager Frances Williams accepted the grant from DCA Commissioner Mike Beatty and Mary Faulkner on behalf of the city.

"We are always looking for ways to help families improve their homes and build wealth through home ownership," Williams said.

All families must meet HUD income guidelines. Proof of income must be provided for each adult in the house (ages 18 and older).

ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES - Homeowner Repair
Heating, plumbing, electrical and roof to foundation structural code violations must be corrected. Other activities include safety and sanitation requirements, energy conservation items (storm windows, doors and insulation), accessibility improvements for disabled persons and abatement of lead based paint hazards.

KEY REQUIREMENTS - Down payment /Closing Cost Assistance
Applicants can receive up to $7,500 depending on the amount needed to obtain a mortgage.

*The applicant must be a first time homebuyer, meaning they have not owned a home in the past three years.

*The home purchased must be the main place where the applicant lives for the next five years.

*The applicant must attend homebuyer education classes. Please call 770-297-1800 for a class schedule.

http://accesswdun.com/article/2008/11/215024