Celebrating Disability Pride Month: Highlighting Homebuyer Assistance Programs for People with Disabilities
MARYLAND, July 9, 2024 — In honor of Disability Pride Month this July, Down Payment Assistance MD is showcasing 18 homebuyer assistance programs across the U.S. that are specifically designed to support individuals with disabilities and their family caregivers in achieving homeownership. While people with disabilities may qualify for any of the 2,300-plus homebuyer assistance programs available nationwide, these 18 programs are uniquely developed to foster accessibility and inclusivity for aspiring homeowners with disabilities.
People with disabilities make up approximately 15% of the global population, encompassing all ages, races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, religions, and socio-economic backgrounds. Disability Pride Month was established in the U.S. to commemorate the passing of the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in July 1990. This observance aims to reshape the narrative around disability, promoting the understanding that being disabled is a natural aspect of human diversity and raising awareness of the everyday challenges faced by people with disabilities.
Funds from these programs can be used for a variety of purposes, including down payments and closing costs. Many of the programs can also be combined with other homebuyer assistance programs, offering additional financial support and resources to individuals with disabilities.
An analysis of these 18 programs highlights the range of assistance available to make homeownership more accessible for people with disabilities:
- Financial assistance range: The programs offer homebuyer assistance ranging from $2,000 to $117,000.
- Availability: The programs are available regionally in eight states and the District of Columbia, with one program offered nationally by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
- Accessibility modifications: Two programs provide funding for accessibility modifications, ensuring homes are adapted to meet the unique needs of individuals with disabilities.
- Program types: The assistance programs include three affordable first mortgages, 12 second mortgage programs, two grant programs, and one combined assistance program.
- Homebuyer status: Four programs are open to repeat buyers, and four first-time buyer programs offer exemptions for Veterans, allowing them to apply regardless of previous homeownership.
“At Down Payment Assistance MD, we believe that everyone should have access to safe, affordable housing,” said the organization’s spokesperson. “These targeted programs make homeownership possible for disabled buyers who may have thought it was out of reach, either due to financial constraints or the need for home modifications. These programs not only help buyers qualify for a mortgage but also provide the necessary funds to make their homes more accessible, whether it’s installing handrails, a chair lift, or ramps.”
About Down Payment Assistance MD:
Down Payment Assistance MD is a trusted resource in the housing industry, specializing in connecting homebuyers with the assistance they need to make homeownership a reality. With a comprehensive database of over 2,300 programs, we offer valuable tools and resources for mortgage lenders, real estate professionals, and homebuyers. Our mission is to improve housing affordability and accessibility, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to own a home. For more information, visit https://downpaymentassistancemd.org/.