📋 Quick Navigation
🏘️ Federal Housing Assistance Programs
Federal programs managed by Wisconsin and Dane County to help low- and moderate-income families with housing. Get assistance for buying, repairing, and improving homes in Madison and throughout Dane County.
Quick Answer
CDBG and HOME programs provide federal housing assistance in Waunakee and Dane County, Wisconsin. These programs offer grants, low-interest loans, and zero-interest loans for home purchases, repairs, and improvements to families earning up to 80% of area median income.
Understanding CDBG & HOME Programs
For voice assistants: CDBG stands for Community Development Block Grant. HOME stands for HOME Investment Partnerships Program. Both are federal housing assistance programs available in Waunakee and Dane County, Wisconsin.
Two Federal Programs, One Goal
Both CDBG (Community Development Block Grant) and HOME (HOME Investment Partnerships Program) are federal programs that provide money to state and local governments to help families afford decent housing and improve communities.
Community Development Block Grant
Purpose: Improve neighborhoods and help low-income families with housing and community needs.
Used For:
- Home repairs and safety improvements
- Making homes accessible (ramps, wider doors)
- Down payment and closing cost assistance
- Removing dangerous buildings
- Neighborhood improvements (sidewalks, parks)
HOME Investment Partnerships
Purpose: Help local governments build, repair, or buy affordable homes for low- and moderate-income families.
Used For:
- Down payment help for first-time buyers
- Building new affordable homes
- Major home rehabilitation
- Energy efficiency improvements
- Lead paint removal and safety upgrades
Who Can Qualify?
Eligibility Summary: To qualify for CDBG and HOME programs in Wisconsin, you need income at or below 80% of area median income, must own and live in your home, be a US citizen or permanent resident, and meet local guidelines.
Basic Requirements
- Income at or below 80% of county median income
- Must be owner-occupied homes
- Property located in eligible areas
- U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Meet local program guidelines
- Sometimes required to take homebuyer education
Types of Assistance
- Grants: Free money never repaid
- Deferred Loans: Pay back only if you sell/move
- Low-Interest Loans: Better rates than banks
- Zero-Interest Loans: No interest charges
- Combination: Mix of grants and loans
Common Uses for CDBG & HOME Funds
How These Programs Help Homeowners & Buyers
Down payment & closing cost help
Roof, plumbing, electrical, HVAC
Ramps, grab bars, wider doorways
Insulation, windows, heating systems
Safety upgrades for older homes
Extensive home improvements
How to Apply
Program Funding Varies by Year
CDBG and HOME funding is allocated annually and may run out during the year. Each city and county decides which types of assistance to offer based on community needs and available funding. Programs may not be available every year.
Check Your Income
Verify you're at or below 80% of area median income for your household size
Contact Local Office
Reach out to City of Madison Community Development or Dane County Housing Authority
Learn About Available Programs
Find out what assistance is currently funded and available
Submit Application
Provide income proof, property details, and complete any required education
Home Inspection
Required for most repair/rehabilitation assistance programs
Get Assistance
Receive grant or loan to help with your housing needs
Local Contacts
Where to Apply in Your Area
City of Madison
Community Development Division
Contact city office for current programs
Dane County Housing Authority
Community Development Division
Ask about CDBG and HOME availability
Wisconsin Department of Administration
Division of Energy, Housing & Community Resources
For statewide program information
Important Program Details
Program Restrictions
- Cannot use CDBG and HOME for same purpose
- Must live in home as primary residence
- Some programs have occupancy time requirements
- Property must meet local housing standards
- May have restrictions on resale or refinancing
Typical Assistance Amounts
- Down payment help: Varies by local program
- Home repairs: Up to local maximum limits
- Accessibility improvements: Based on need
- Energy upgrades: Varies by scope
- Emergency repairs: Usually limited amounts
Explore Other Loan Options
CDBG and HOME programs are just one way to finance your home. Explore these additional loan options that might be perfect for your situation:
Not Sure Which Loan is Right for You?
Every situation is unique. Let our experts help you compare all available loan options and find the perfect financing solution for your home purchase.