Housing Choice Voucher Program
Information about the Project Based Voucher program.
State and national links to homeless and special housing needs information.
Standards of Design for Preconstruction manual and forms
Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC)
Information on Direct Lending Parameters, Gap Financing Programs, Equity Bridge Loan Program, Notice of Intent to Apply, LIHTC Application and Exhibit Requirements for Direct Lending Programs, Other Information (Mortgagor and Contractor's Cost Certification Guide and forms, HOME Subsidy Limits, Direct Lending Intake Forms, Contractor Requirements, and the Modified Pass-Through Program), Parameters
Information about the Pass-Through Bond Program
MSHDA HUD Section 3 policy and these guidelines have been prepared to provide information and guidance to Section 3 recipients on how the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) will administer the Section 3 regulations.
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What is the First-Generation Down Payment Assistance Program?
This limited-time pilot program offers first-generation homebuyers across Michigan a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to receive a $25,000 down payment assistance loan to help with down payment, closing costs, and prepaid escrows. Available in all 83 counties, this program gets us closer to ensuring every Michigander can afford a quality, affordable home in the community of their choice.
Who qualifies as a first-generation homebuyer?
A first-generation homebuyer is purchasing a property that must be used as their primary residence and has not owned a home in the past three years. Also to qualify, the borrower’s parents or legal guardians do not currently and have not owned a home in the past three years. People who have aged out of foster care or who have been emancipated by court order may also qualify.
What is the level of monetary assistance first-generation homebuyers can receive through this program?
Eligible homebuyers can receive a (up to) $25,000 payment assistance loan.
How many Michiganders will be able to take part in this program?
The State of Michigan has allocated $8 million dollars to fund this pilot program. We expect that more than 320 families across Michigan will benefit.
Why do we need a program like this?
A quality, affordable home is foundational to individual success in school, work, and social life. And let’s face it: Homeownership is the backbone of a thriving community. It stabilizes neighborhoods, strengthens the local tax base, and fuels economic growth by attracting businesses and creating jobs. When families can put down roots, they invest in schools, local businesses, and community organizations, building stronger, more connected, and resilient communities for generations to come.
With rising costs, homeownership is slipping out of reach for many Michiganders. This program aims to level the playing field so more families can achieve the dream of an affordable first home.
Can this assistance be combined with other MSHDA programs?
The down payment assistance loan can be combined with MSHDA FHA, Conventional and Rural Development loans and the MSHDA Rate Relief Mortgage, but it cannot be combined with MSHDA’s MI $10K DPA program. Check with your lender to see if there are other non-MSHDA DPA programs, such as City of Detroit, City of Jackson, Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis HomeBoost, etc., for which you may qualify.
Are there any restrictions on the type of property that can be purchased?
The property must be a single-family, owner-occupied house or condominium that serves as the primary residence. The maximum purchase price cannot exceed $224,500.
CTA: For more terms and conditions, visit the First-Generation DPA page on MSHDA’s website.
How do interested homebuyers apply for the Program?
Homebuyers should seek the help of a MSHDA-approved participating lender to see if they are eligible. To find an Experienced Participating Lender visit the State of Michigan Web Portal and select your county.
Are there any other program requirements?
Yes, to qualify, applicants must meet certain requirements, including:
Why do I have to take a homebuyer education class?
Since borrower(s) have not experienced homeownership and don’t have a biological parent or legal adoptive parent that has been a homeowner, a more in-depth and personal interaction with a HUD-certified housing counselor will help borrower(s) understand the responsibilities of being a homeowner. This will set First-Generation DPA homebuyers up for success in not only getting into a home but also staying in that home in the long run.
Do I have to use the full $25,000 available for Down Payment Assistance loan?
No, but we encourage borrowers to use as much of the $25,000 as possible.
Where can I find more information about this program?
This initiative is part of MSHDA’s ongoing commitment to expanding affordable housing opportunities in Michigan. It builds on successful homeownership programs like the MI Home Loan Mortgage, down payment assistance, and housing counseling. To learn more about this program, visit the First-Generation DPA page on MSHDA’s website, or visit Michigan.gov/homeownership to learn about all of MSHDA’s available homeownership programs.