National Homeownership Month provides the DC Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) with an opportunity to highlight the advantages of homeownership and to promote responsible ownership practices.
We create pathways to homeownership for first-time buyers and offer established homeowners options to remain in safe, familiar environments.
Housing is a fundamental need, and the demand for affordable housing in the district continues to be high. However, in April, the median sale price for homes in the city surpassed $750,000. A home at this price typically requires a buyer to have a high annual income, substantial savings for a down payment, and strong credit to obtain a mortgage.
The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) believes homeownership serves as a foundation for families and communities to succeed. Thanks to the leadership of Mayor Muriel Bowser, the District is a leader among cities in making homeownership accessible for first-time homebuyers.
In October 2024, our Home Purchase Assistance Program (HPAP) began utilizing a lottery process to enhance certainty for homebuyers as they choose their homes, financing options, and other advisory services. The program offers up to $202,000 in assistance. So far, over 200 first-time homebuyers have received approximately $28.2 million in down payment and closing cost assistance to help them achieve their goal of homeownership.
For many individuals, buying their first home is not only a financial investment but also an opportunity to forge an emotional connection. Achieving homeownership can be a proud and life-changing milestone; however, the diligence and patience needed to maintain a home over time can pose challenges for some households.
Over time, homes that have not been well-maintained may develop safety hazards, leading to significant financial burdens for homeowners. Insufficient maintenance can result in the loss of key long-term benefits associated with homeownership, including stable housing costs, retained equity, safety, convenience, and even the property itself.
DHCD provides grants of up to $20,000 for roof and gutter repairs outside the home, and up to $30,000 for interior modifications for homeowners with limited mobility. These grants are available to income-eligible households through the Single-Family Residential Rehabilitation Program (SFRRP). The purpose of these repairs is to ensure that homeowners can remain safe in their homes.
The emotional attachment to a home extends to other family members. However, transferring real property to potential heirs without a will after the owner’s death can be a lengthy and complex process.
Black families have potentially lost billions in home equity over generations when transferring property from a deceased family member.
Since October 2024, the DHCD’s Heirs Property Assistance Program has helped over 170 low-income households in the district navigate the probate court process. This assistance enables them to obtain a clear legal title to real estate from the estates of deceased family members.
Achieving long-term economic stability can be challenging, but the benefits of our efforts significantly impacts the families and communities we serve. The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) will continue to assist renters in becoming homeowners, support current homeowners facing difficulties, and provide better resources for families to pass down their homes from one generation to the next.
DEPARTMENT of HOUSING and COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Office Hours
DHCD – M to F, 8:15 am to 4:45 pm; Resource Center – M to F, 8:30 am to 3:30 pm (Drop-off Only)
Connect With Us
1909 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20020
Phone: (202) 442-7200
TTY: 711
Email: dhcd@dc.gov
facebook.com/dcdhcd
Instagram: @DCDHCD
Twitter: @DCDHCD
