Housing Expenses

If you are paying more than 1/3 of your income for housing expenses and having difficulties with other bills and basic needs, consider the following: 

Lower Costs:  Although moving is a difficult change, finding affordable rent, or downsizing to lower your mortgage, is the best way to ensure you aren’t spending too much income on housing. 

Public Housing:  Public housing was established to provide rental housing for eligible low-income families, older adults, and people with disabilities. 

• Public Housing may include apartment buildings for older adults/people with disabilities or offers rent subsidies through a voucher like Section 8.  Sometimes these programs have long waiting lists. 
• You can search income limits for public housing in your County here.   
• You can also contact 211 and ask for your local Housing Authority which manages public housing in your area. 

Although buying a home can seem like a monumental challenge, there are many assistance programs to help first time buyers with down payment assistance, lower interest loans, and education to help make homeowner possible.

Down Payment Assistance:  Many communities have incentives and matching programs to help first time homebuyers save for a down payment. The Department of Housing and Urban Development offers some tips for first time homebuyers here.   

Loans:  Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans offer reduced rates, low down payments, and easier credit score qualifications. Find a FHA program in your state.   

Homebuyer Education:  Taking a homebuyer education class is the best way to learn about down payment assistance programs and subsidized loans.  In addition, upon completion of a qualified class, participants are often eligible for significant discounts on mortgage insurance. Many University Extension offices offer these classes or contact 211 and ask about homebuyer education programs.   

Weatherizing your home can both reduce energy costs and improve the health and comfort of residents. Weatherization costs can be expensive, but programs are available to help.

Weatherization Assistance Programs, administered by the US Department of Energy, provide home weatherization services for income-eligible households living at or below 200% of the federal poverty level and meet other criteria.

• The family may rent or own their home, but renters must obtain landlord permission.  
• Weatherization provides an energy audit of your home and then may provide minor home repairs.    
• Find your local office here.