Homeownership

The City of Chicago offers a comprehensive network of homeownership resources designed to help residents purchase, learn, maintain, and invest. Through the Department of Housing (DOH) and partner organizations, Chicago equips individuals and families with the financial tools, education, and support needed to build long‑term housing stability. Scroll below to obtain valuable resources.

Homeownership and Housing

First-Time Homebuyers

Affordable Housing

Housing Insecurity

Homeownership and Housing

The Homeownership & Housing category brings together a comprehensive suite of programs, guides, and support services designed to make stable housing and homeownership attainable for all residents. It includes down payment assistance, affordable housing programs, home repair grants, and foreclosure prevention initiatives that reduce barriers to owning and maintaining a home. These resources also connect residents to counseling services that help them navigate credit, budgeting and mortgage readiness.

Whether someone is buying their first home, exploring shared equity options, or seeking help to prevent foreclosure, this category ensures residents can access trusted, city- and state-supported tolls that promote long-term stability and community growth.

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First Time Homebuyer Programs

These resources are designed to guide new buyers through the homebuying process from start to finish. The commonly cover mortgage readiness (credit, budgeting, savings plans), understanding different loan types and completing homebuyer education requirements. A major benefit of resources is that they reduce confusion and risk.

These tools are best for residents who have never purchased a home, buyers returning to homeownership after many years, or anyone who needs coaching to become “mortgage-ready”.

First-Time Homebuyer Programs (18)

Affordable Housing

Affordable Housing resources focus on helping residents find and maintain housing that is priced below market rate or made affordable through public or nonprofit programs. These tools often help residents understand what “affordable” means in practice.

These tools are best for residents who have never purchased a home, buyers returning to homeownership after many years, or anyone who needs coaching to become “mortgage-ready”.

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Housing Insecurity

Housing Insecurity resources support residents who are at risk of losing housing or who are struggling to maintain stable housing due to financial hardship, job loss, or other emergencies.

Ideal for homebuyers behind on payments, residents facing foreclosure risk, renters or homeowners needing stabilization support, and service providers helping clients navigate urgent housing challenges.