Hey there! Thinking about buying your first home in San Bernardino County? That’s fantastic! Navigating the home-buying process can feel overwhelming, but there are programs designed to make it more accessible for first-time buyers like you. Let’s explore the San Bernardino County Homeownership Assistance Program to see how it might help you achieve your dream of homeownership.

Program Overview

The Housing Authority of the County of San Bernardino (HACSB) offers a Homeownership Assistance Program aimed at helping eligible families transition from renting to owning their own homes.

Funding Source

This program is funded by the Housing Authority of the County of San Bernardino, utilizing resources allocated to support affordable housing initiatives within the county.

Eligibility Criteria

• Program Participation: Be a participant in an eligible HACSB affordable housing or rental assistance program for at least one year.
• Good Standing: Maintain good standing with HACSB program requirements.
• First-Time Homebuyer: No homeownership history within the past three years.
• Employment: Employed full-time for at least two years (this requirement is waived for individuals who are disabled or elderly, aged 62 or older).
• Credit Score: A minimum credit score of 640, with no outstanding collection accounts, judgments, or liens, and at least two years since any bankruptcy discharge.
• Down Payment: Ability to provide a minimum down payment of 3% (1% from your own funds; the remaining 2% can come from gifts or grants).

Note: Not all HACSB affordable programs are eligible for homeownership assistance. It’s important to contact HACSB staff for full eligibility details.

Benefits

• Mortgage Assistance: The program provides mortgage assistance for up to 15 years for working families and up to 30 years for disabled families, contingent upon meeting income requirements.
• Support and Guidance: Participants receive coaching and support from HACSB staff throughout the home-buying process.

Potential Drawbacks

• Eligibility Limitations: The program is limited to current participants of eligible HACSB programs, which may exclude some potential applicants.
• Credit and Employment Requirements: Strict credit score and employment history criteria may pose challenges for some applicants.

Application Process

1. Confirm Eligibility: Ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria, including participation in an eligible HACSB program.
2. Contact HACSB: Reach out to the Homeownership Specialist to discuss your interest and verify your eligibility.
3. Prepare Documentation: Gather necessary documents such as proof of income, employment history, credit reports, and down payment funds.
4. Homebuyer Education: Complete any required homebuyer education courses as directed by HACSB.
5. Application Submission: Submit your application along with all required documentation to HACSB for review.
6. Approval and Assistance: Upon approval, work with HACSB staff to receive guidance and proceed with the home-buying process.

Contact Information

For more details or to begin the application process, contact:

Christine Guevara, Homeownership Specialist
Housing Authority of the County of San Bernardino
715 East Brier Drive, San Bernardino, CA 92408
Phone: (909) 332-6311
Email: cguevara@hacsb.com

Additional Resources

For more information, visit the HACSB Homeownership Assistance Program page: https://hacsb.com/homeownership-assistance-program/