Heights Takes Steps to Make Homes More Affordable

Did you know Chicago Heights offers two major initiatives providing affordable housing and financial breaks to those interested in renting or purchasing a home in Chicago Heights?

If you've been through a foreclosure or are looking to buy a new home, consider the Building Blocks program. The Heights is one of six municipalities to offer the down payment and closing cost assistance. Qualifying residents can get up to $10,000 down on any home in Chicago Heights from Illinois state funding.

And then there's the Neighborhood Stabilization Program—which allows residents still working on improving their credit and finances, to rent a newly rehabbed home for a year. At the end of that year the home will be put up for sale, with the renting occupant receiving the right of first refusal.

“On those homes, ideally it is geared toward people right in the middle, who are not necessarily eligible but are working to build credit to purchase a home,” City Housing Consultant Matt Sanchez said. “At the end of that year, the renter is asked whether they are interested in purchasing the property. The renter gets priority over any other potential buyer.”

You can learn more about these incentive programs on the Chicago Heights City website.