officer next door

HUD wants to strengthen America's communities and build a safer nation by offering homeownership opportunities to law enforcement officers through the Officer Next Door Program. Governmental agencies, nonprofit organizations and law enforcement officers can help make this goal a reality by purchasing HUD homes at deep discounts and using them to promote safety in neighborhoods.

Designated HUD-owned properties in revitalization areas (insured and uninsured) will be available under this program at a 50 percent discount. To make properties even more affordable, when a law enforcement officer chooses to use an FHA-insured mortgage the downpayment is $100. When a governmental agency or nonprofit organization is the purchaser, HUD expects that the full discount will be passed on to the law enforcement officer.

The law enforcement officer must occupy the purchased property as his/her principal residence for at least three years. Although not required, law enforcement officers are encouraged to purchase a home in the community they serve.

HUD's designated revitalization areas are neighborhoods that have many vacant properties, including properties needing extensive repairs, and have been selected by the locality for economic development efforts.

Law enforcement officers may purchase a home directly from HUD after the governmental agency provides an employment certification. As an alternative, the governmental agency can purchase a HUD home and sell it to the law enforcement officer. A direct sale to the law enforcement officer eliminates the need for dual closings and the associated added costs.

Please contact your local Homeownership Center or call 1-800-217-6970 for more information.