Home Ownership Program (HOP)

The HOP allows eligible participants in the HCV/Section 8 program to use their voucher to help buy a home instead of renting one. The HASA has a limited number of vouchers available under this program, and availability is not always guaranteed. This program is designed for families who are ready to take the next step toward long-term housing stability and homeownership. 

 

How It Works

Families who meet the eligibility requirements below may use their HCV assistance toward monthly mortgage payments on a home they purchase. To be considered, a family must already be eligible for the HCV Program and have an active application on the Section 8 waiting list. When your name reaches the top of the waiting list and you are invited to the HCV preliminary briefing, you may request additional screening for the HOP. 

 

Basic Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the HOP, families must meet both federal and local eligibility standards, including the following:

1. First-Time Homebuyer

• No member of the family may have owned a home in the last three years.
• Exceptions may apply for certain circumstances (e.g., single parents or cooperative members as defined by HUD regulations).

2. No Prior Default

• No family member may have previously defaulted on a mortgage obtained through the HOP. 

3. Income Requirements

• The family's annual gross income must be at least equal to the federal minimum wage multiplied by 2,000 hours (approximately one year of full-time employment).
• For disabled families, the minimum income requirement equals the current SSI monthly payment for an individual living alone multiplied by 12 months.
• For elderly or disabled families, welfare assistance for adult family members may be included in the income calculation; for all other families, it is excluded.

4. Employment Requirements

• At least one adult family member who will own the home must be employed full-time (30 hours per week or more) and have been continuously employed for at least 12 months prior to the start of homeownership assistance.
• Short breaks in employment (up to 30 days) are permitted if they do not occur within six months prior to applying.
• Employment requirements do not apply to elderly or disabled families, and HASA may grant an exemption as a reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities. 

5. Home and Contract Requirements

• The family may not currently own a residence (except cooperative members who already hold shares).
• The family must enter into a contract of sale that meets HUD requirements (24 CFR 982.631(c)).
• The home must pass two inspections:
  • A private inspection by a Texas Real Estate Commission-licensed inspector (paid by the applicant).
  • A Housing Quality Standards (HQS) inspection by HASA.

6. Family Standing Requirements

To qualify, the family must also demonstrate good standing with HASA: 

• No inspection violations within the past 12 months;
• No property damage beyond normal wear and tear;
• No landlord complaints;
• No outstanding debts owed to the HASA or a landlord;
• No serious or repeated violations or evictions in the past 12 months. 

7. Financial Readiness

• The family must show proof of at least $500 in earnest money and 3% of the home's purchase price saved for a down payment.
• Completion of a HUD-approved Homebuyer Education Course is required before closing. 

 

Length of Assistance

The maximum time a family may receive HOP assistance depends on the length of their mortgage:

• 15 years if the initial mortgage term is 20 years or longer; or
• 10 years if the mortgage term is less than 20 years.

(These limits do not apply to elderly or disabled families.)

 

Additional Requirements and Considerations

Other requirements may apply, including loan restrictions, seller approval, realtor eligibility, and homeownership expense guidelines. For complete details, please refer to the HOP Administrative Plan or contact our office for guidance. 

 

Ready to Take the Next Step? 

If you're interested in becoming a homeowner through the HCV Program, we encourage you to reach out to us for more information:

Email: [email protected] 

The Homeownership Program can help make your dream of owning a home a reality - one step at a time. 

 

HOP Documents: