Pontiac Announced Down Payment Assistance Program to Boost Homebuying

PONTIAC, MI (November 19, 2025)—The City of Pontiac officially unveiled its Down Payment Assistance Program at City Hall on November 19. This initiative was made possible through a partnership with National Faith Homebuyers (NFH), aimed at enhancing homeownership opportunities for first-time homebuyers and encouraging wealth building and reinvestment in Pontiac Neighborhoods.

The Down Payment Assistance Program is essential for neighborhood stabilization and community investment, while seeking to lower barriers to first-time homebuyers by offering support for down payments and closing costs up to $20,000.

“We are thrilled to support Pontiac residents and newcomers eager to embark on a new journey in our city, allowing them to experience the joy and financial benefits of homeownership,” said Mayor Tim Greimel. “This marks the first program of its kind in Pontiac in many years, and it is aimed at making home ownership more affordable and growing the number of homeowners within our community.”

Renters seeking to purchase their currently leased homes along with individuals looking

to move to Pontiac are also encouraged to apply.

The program marks the celebration of Pontiac's revival as an entitlement community through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The city allocated $437,475 from the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to support this program.

The Down Payment Assistance Program is available to applicants earning less than 80% of the Area Median Income, adjusted by family size, as defined by HUD, while funds are available. Program requirements also include:

· The prospective home must be in Pontiac.

• Applicants must be first-time homebuyers or have not acquired a home in the last three years. Additionally, the prospective home must serve as the applicants' primary residence.
• Upon completing a homebuyer education session through National Faith Homebuyers, the applicant must submit a certificate as part of their application package.

· Applicants are asked to work with NFH to help fulfill all HUD and program requirements.

This initiative is being introduced in collaboration with National Faith Homebuyers, a nonprofit organization that possesses extensive experience in homeownership counseling and program management. NFH will also offer applicants expert guidance throughout the homebuying journey, covering everything from education and budgeting to ensure a successful purchase and sustainable homeownership.

“National Faith Homebuyers is pleased to announce our partnership with the City of Pontiac,” said National Faith Homebuyers Founder and CEO Dina Harris. “Through this program, we aim to provide critical financial support and guidance to families, helping to remove barriers that have historically stood in the way of purchasing a first home. The potential to help families turn their dreams into reality remains a driving force for our team. Together, we can empower more families to achieve stable, secure, and rewarding futures through homeownership.”

The City is dedicated to managing this thriving program that enhances affordability.

"Every day, we see the challenges our residents face in finding affordable housing and building stability," said Pontiac HUD Administrator Tuesday Redmond. "This program demonstrates our shared commitment — between the City, HUD, and our residents — to making homeownership attainable and sustainable for those who have worked hard for it."

Interested parties looking to transition into a new home in Pontiac can conveniently schedule a Zoom appointment with National Faith Homebuyers by calling (313) 255-9500.