Homebuyers Assistance

• Purpose
  This program is to be utilized by residents wishing to become homeowners but do not have the resources to cover all initial costs, such as down payment and closing costs.
  
  
• Eligibility
  To be eligible for assistance, you must purchase a single family home within the City limits of Massillon.

Home must be inspected for compliance with Residential Rehabilitation Standards (RRS).

Applicant must use the dwelling as his (her) primary residence. Provide a minimum of $500 from buyer's funds toward purchase.

Income can not exceed 80% of the area median income limits for the Stark County area. These limits are based on the current U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) guidelines.

• Use of funds
  An eligible client may receive funds towards down payment and or closing costs.  Funds cannot exceed lender's criteria regarding third party contributions. Call for details.

Pre-paid expenses, such as insurance, taxes, interest, and loan discount fees may not be paid through the assistance program.

Housing rehabilitation funds may be available for up to an additional $5,000.

All assistance is contingent on availability of funds at the time of application.

Funds will be secured by a Deferred Promissory Note and Deferred Mortgage Deed which will be forgiven after a period of five years provided the property continues to be in the name of and the principal residence of the applicant, and is not used as collateral for a subsequent loan. Applicants must participate in a credit counseling session as a condition of assistance being provided.

• Purpose
  This program is to be utilized by residents wishing to purchase newly constructed homes, which are a part of an approved new construction project. The program is for the benefit of families and individuals that do not have the resources necessary to purchase a new home.
  
  
• Eligibilitv
  To be eligible for assistance, the applicant must desire to purchase a newly constructed home, which is part of an approved new construction project within the city limits of Massillon. Applicants must meet necessary income guidelines. Call for guideline details.
  

• Use of funds
  Applicant my receive assistance for down payment and or closing costs to purchase a newly constructed home. Call for details.

Funds cannot exceed lender's criteria regarding third party contributions, and some funds must come from purchaser's resources.

Pre-paid expenses, such as insurance, taxes, interest, and loan discount fees may not be paid through the assistance program.

• Qualifications
  To qualify for assistance, the applicant must have proof of pre-qualification from a financial institution, have a signed purchase agreement from the seller, and use the residence as their primary dwelling.

Income can not exceed 80% of the area median income limits for the Stark County area. These limits are based on the current U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) guidelines.

All assistance is contingent of availability of funds at time of application. Funds will be secured by a Deferred Promissory Note and Deferred Mortgage Deed which will be forgiven after a period of five years provided the property continues to be in the name of and the principal residence of the applicant, and is not used as collateral for a subsequent loan.

Applicants must participate in a credit counseling session as a condition of assistance being provided

• Emergency Housing Rehabilitation
  This program is to correct true emergency problems that are a current threat to the health and safety of the household. Problems such as furnace, hot water tank, and water or sewer line will be addressed under this program.  No lien will be placed on the home for this program only. This is a one time only program. Maximum amount $4,000.00.
  
  
• HCEC/Grant Program
  This program is to correct minor repairs under the Massillon Housing Code and or emergency efficiency. Problems such as roof, electric, furnace or hot water tank, (that is not efficient but runs good). This is a one time only program and a 5 year deferred lien will be placed on the property. No land contracts on this program. Maximum amount $7,000.00.

• Mobile Home Program
  This program is for minor repairs such as roof sealing, flooring, water or sewer problems, hot water tanks, furnaces and skirting. This is a one time only program. Maximum amount $4,000.00.

• Full Housing Rehabilitation
  This program is to bring a house up to Massillon housing code and make it decent, safe and sanitary. The installation of siding, roofing, windows, doors, plumbing, heating and cosmetic corrections to the interior and exterior. This is a one time only program. Once you receive assistance through this program, you can not receive an emergency or a HCEC/grant. There will be a 10 year deferred deed recorded and the property shall not be used as collateral for any subsequent loans.

The assistance is used to correct existing violations of the housing code, energy conservation purposes, such as installation of storm windows and doors, and cosmetic corrections to the interior and exterior.

A 10-year lien will be recorded in the amount of assistance provided by the City of Massillon. While the lien is in effect, the property shall not be used as collateral for any subsequent loans.

Fair Housing and Tenant Landlord

The City of Massillon operates its own fair housing program which is designed to improve and promote housing opportunities in the community, including education and outreach, monitoring and evaluation, and administration of fair housing laws.

The City also addresses tenant/landlord issues, and conducts periodic workshops and counseling services between the tenant and landlord.

Your Rights As A Tenant Or A Landlord