City of Austin Neighborhood Housing and Community Development

The mission of the City of Austin's Neighborhood Housing and Community Development (NHCD) is to provide housing, community development and small business development services to benefit eligible residents so they can have access to livable neighborhoods and increase their opportunities for self-sufficiency.

• HousingSmarts Housing Counseling Program

Need to learn the ins and outs of buying a home? The HousingSmarts Housing Counseling Program offers Home Buyer Education for first time home buyers. This class empowers Austinites by teaching you how to improve your credit, develop a spending/savings plan, and manage debt. Classes are Free. 80% MFI

• Individual Development Account (IDA) Program

A $3 to $1 matched savings program for households at 60% or below MFI. For every $1 you save, the City will provide a match of $3. Funds can be used towards the purchase of a home, higher education, or starting a small business. The City will match up to $6,000. 60% MFI

• LeadSmart Grant

Was your home built before 1978? Do children age 5 or under live in your home, or visit? If you said yes, we will inspect your home for lead and we will remove it at no cost to you. This could include free replacement of windows, door trims, walls and more! The City will provide up to $30,000 in grant funds.

• Architectural Barrier Removal

Trouble getting around your home? We assist eligible seniors and people with disabilities who would like their home to be more accessible. This free program provides home improvements such as wheel chair ramps, handrails and more. The City will provide up to $15,000 in grant funds for modifications.

• Home Repair Loan

Has your home seen better days? We assist eligible homeowners in bringing their homes up to building code standards with major interior and exterior improvements, such as repairs to the home's foundation, roof, electrical, plumbing, and more. The City will provide up to $50,000 in repairs.

• Private Lateral Pipeline Grant

Have you received a notice from Austin Water about your private lateral line? If younotice a damp area in your yard or one area of your yard looks greener than the rest of the yard or suspect a leak, call Austin Water at (512) 972-1000 to request a leak test. This program is FREE.

• Down Payment Assistance

Owning a home is closer than you think…we assist first-time home buyers, buying a house in Austin, with funds to cover their down payment. You are considered a "first-time home buyer" if you have not owned a home in the last three years or have been displaced because of divorce. The City will provide up to $10,000.