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Empowering New Orleans Residents: HANO’s Homeownership Program in 2025


In 2025, the Housing Authority of New Orleans (HANO) continues to make significant strides in transforming renters into homeowners through its comprehensive Homeownership Program. Designed to assist public housing and Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCVP) participants, this initiative offers a structured pathway to homeownership, fostering stability and economic growth within the community.


A Structured Path to Homeownership

HANO's Homeownership Program is structured into three key components:


  1. Homebuyer Preparation: This phase involves personalized counseling, financial fitness training, and homebuyer education classes. Participants work closely with HANO staff and referral agencies to improve credit scores, increase savings, and understand the homebuying process.HANO+1Instagram+1

  2. Homebuyer Assistance: Once deemed mortgage-ready, clients receive technical assistance throughout the homebuying journey, including loan applications, property selection, inspections, and closing procedures. HANO staff ensure compliance with program requirements and facilitate smooth transactions. HANO

  3. Marketing and Sales: HANO collaborates with developers to market and sell homeownership units, expanding residents' opportunities to purchase homes within revitalized communities.


Eligibility and Support

To qualify for the program, applicants must:

  • Be current public housing or HCVP residents.

  • Have a household income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI).

  • Be first-time homebuyers (not having owned a home in the past three years).

  • Meet credit and employment criteria, including a minimum credit score and stable employment.


HANO also connects participants with external resources, such as the City of New Orleans' Direct Homebuyer Assistance Program, which offers up to $55,000 in soft second mortgage funds and $5,000 in closing cost assistance to eligible first-time homebuyers. NOLA.gov


Program Impact and Future Goals

Since its inception, HANO's Homeownership Program has assisted over 500 families in achieving homeownership.  In its 2025–2030 strategic plan, HANO aims to: LinkedInHANO+1HANO+.1.

  • Increase the usage of homeownership vouchers to 5% of HCV households.

  • Develop or acquire over 1,000 affordable housing units, including homeownership opportunities.

  • Partner with organizations to provide down payment and closing cost assistance. HANO+1HANO+1


Community Engagement and Events

HANO actively engages with the community through events like the "Lender's Lunch and Learn," held on April 8, 2025. These events aim to educate housing lenders about the program and encourage partnerships that expand homeownership opportunities for residents.


Conclusion

HANO's Homeownership Program stands as a beacon of hope for many New Orleans residents aspiring to own a home. Through comprehensive support, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to community development, HANO continues to pave the way for its residents' more stable and prosperous future.


For more information or to apply, visit HANO's Homeownership Program.


Disclaimer:

The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal, financial, or housing advice. While efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the content, the Housing Authority of New Orleans (HANO) may update or change its programs, eligibility requirements, or policies without prior notice. Readers are encouraged to contact HANO directly or visit www.hano.org for the most current and accurate information regarding its Homeownership Program. This blog is not affiliated with or endorsed by HANO or any governmental agency.



 
 
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