Hey there! Thinking about buying your first home in Baytown, Texas? That’s fantastic! I know the process can feel a bit overwhelming, but don’t worry—there’s a great program that might just make things easier for you.

What is the City of Baytown Homebuyer Assistance Program?

The City of Baytown offers a Homebuyer Assistance Program designed to help first-time homebuyers like you achieve the dream of homeownership. This program provides eligible applicants with up to 5% of the home’s sales price to assist with down payment and closing costs.

Learn more on the official website: City of Baytown Homebuyer Assistance Program

Funding Source

This assistance is funded through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, which aims to support low to moderate-income residents in achieving stable housing.

Read more details in the official document: Program Guidelines PDF

Eligibility Criteria

• Age: Be at least 18 years old.
• Mortgage Financing: Secure mortgage financing from a lender.
• Homebuyer Education: Complete an approved Homebuyers’ Counseling Workshop.
• Personal Contribution: Contribute at least 2% of the sales price from your own funds toward the purchase.
• First-Time Buyer: You and your household members must not have owned a home within the past three years.
• Income Limits: Your household’s annual gross income must not exceed 80% of the area’s median income. For example, for a household of four, the maximum income is $75,700.
• Property Requirements: The home must be a detached or attached single-family dwelling within Baytown city limits, with a purchase price not exceeding $200,000.

Benefits

• Financial Assistance: Receive up to 5% of the home’s sales price to help cover down payment and closing costs.
• Forgivable Loan: The assistance is provided as a five-year forgivable loan, meaning if you stay in the home for five years, you won’t have to repay the amount.

Potential Drawbacks

• Personal Contribution: You’ll need to contribute at least 2% of the sales price from your own funds.
• Income and Property Limits: The program has specific income limits and property price caps, which may limit your options.

Application Process

Ready to apply? Here’s how:

1. Prepare Documentation: Gather necessary documents, including proof of income, employment, household members, and bank statements.
2. Complete Homebuyer Education: Enroll in and complete an approved Homebuyers’ Counseling Workshop.
3. Apply Online: Visit the Citizen Self Service Portal and search for “Homebuyer Assistance Program” to submit your application.
4. Submit Required Documents: Upload all required documentation as part of your online application.

If you have any questions or need assistance with the application process, feel free to email the Community Development department at communitydevelopment@baytown.org.

I hope this information helps you on your journey to becoming a homeowner in Baytown! If you have any more questions or need further assistance, just let me know.