🏡 City One-Dollar Homeownership Program: How U.S. Cities Are Making Housing More Accessible

Across the U.S., a unique collaboration between cities and the Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America (NACA) is helping community residents access homeownership through the City One-Dollar Homeownership Program. By offering vacant homes or lots for just one dollar, the program supports revitalization in neighborhoods historically impacted by disinvestment, while providing pathways to sustainable property ownership.

🏠 What Is the One-Dollar Homeownership Program?

This initiative allows eligible individuals to purchase vacant properties owned by local municipalities for $1. The program focuses on:

• Returning abandoned homes and lots to productive use

• Supporting long-term community stability

• Facilitating homeownership for qualifying residents

Through this model, cities offer available properties directly to individuals—not developers—while NACA helps finance necessary renovations or new construction, ensuring affordability without the added profit margins of third-party sellers.

✅ Who Can Apply?

Eligibility requirements vary slightly by city, but typically include:

• Residency: Must currently live in the city or have lived there for at least five years within the last decade

• Income: Household income must be equal to or less than the area median income (as defined by U.S. Census MSA data)

• Homeownership Status: Cannot currently own a home

• Documentation: Proof of identity and prior residency (e.g., lease, utility bill, tax return)

📅 How the Application Process Works

The overall process includes three simple stages:

1. Eligibility & Counseling: Complete housing and financial counseling through NACA and become NACA Qualified.

2. Property Selection: Receive listings of available homes or lots, visit properties, and participate in a lottery selection based on income and community ties.

3. Purchase & Renovation: Sign contracts, secure financing, and work with NACA and local contractors to complete necessary construction or renovations. Buyers move in once the home is livable and requirements are met.

🏢 Types of Properties Available

• Vacant Houses: Require inspection and renovation (NACA coordinates estimates and construction planning)

• Vacant Lots: Buyers select home designs, work with modular builders, and prepare sites for delivery

In both cases, financing covers all necessary construction or rehab, with no payment burden for the owner during the build phase if the home is not yet livable.

📋 Ownership Terms and Affordability Protections

To ensure long-term community benefit, buyers agree to:

• 10-year occupancy requirement

• Deed restrictions preventing house flipping

• Use of land trusts (where applicable) to maintain affordability and community investment

These safeguards are designed to support local stability while helping residents build equity over time.

🔍 Sample Participating Cities

Cities that have implemented or are piloting versions of this model include:

• Detroit, MI

• Cleveland, OH

• Baltimore, MD

• St. Louis, MO

• Buffalo, NY

Each city provides a list of properties and may offer streamlined permitting, inspection, and preparation support.

⚖️ How This Compares to Other Housing Support Programs

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is this only for first-time buyers?

No. Applicants cannot currently own a home, but prior ownership is allowed.

Can I choose the neighborhood?

Yes, available listings are provided and selected by the buyer within the program scope.

Are credit scores considered?

NACA financing does not use credit scores to determine eligibility.

Are there hidden costs?

Buyers agree to long-term occupancy, and all terms are disclosed before contract signing. Renovation costs are financed, not billed up-front.

📦 Next Steps

Those interested in participating can:

• Begin NACA’s housing counseling process

• Check city-specific property lists and eligibility requirements

• Prepare documentation for residency and income

• Review sample house plans or renovation budgets

For more details or to begin the application process, visit the official NACA website or consult participating city housing departments.

Note: All information provided reflects verified program structure and public data as of mid-2025. Specific terms may vary by city and are subject to availability.

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