CDBG & HOME
Programs
Federal grants and low-interest loans helping low- and moderate-income families buy, repair, and improve homes throughout Dane County, Wisconsin.
What are CDBG & HOME Programs in Madison & Dane County, Wisconsin?
Quick Answer: CDBG (Community Development Block Grant) and HOME Investment Partnerships are federal programs available in Madison and Dane County, Wisconsin. They provide grants, zero-interest loans, and deferred loans for home purchases, repairs, and improvements to households earning at or below 80% of area median income. Programs are administered locally and funding is limited and first-come, first-served.
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Understanding CDBG & HOME Programs
Two powerful federal programs — managed locally — designed to make homeownership and safe housing achievable for working families in Wisconsin.
Community Development Block Grant
Improving neighborhoods and helping low-income families with housing and community needs.
Eligible Uses
- Home repairs & safety improvements
- Accessibility improvements (ramps, wider doors)
- Down payment & closing cost assistance
- Removing dangerous structures
- Neighborhood improvements (sidewalks, parks)
HOME Investment Partnerships
Helping local governments build, repair, or purchase affordable homes for qualifying families.
Eligible Uses
- Down payment help for first-time buyers
- Building new affordable homes
- Major home rehabilitation
- Energy efficiency improvements
- Lead paint removal & safety upgrades
Who Can Qualify?
Basic eligibility requirements apply statewide, with local offices administering specific programs. Most assistance targets households earning at or below 80% of Dane County's area median income.
Basic Requirements
- Household income at or below 80% of county median
- Must be owner-occupied primary residence
- Property located in an eligible area
- U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident
- Meet all local program guidelines
- May require completion of homebuyer education
Types of Assistance Available
Common Uses for CDBG & HOME Funds
From down payment assistance to major rehab projects, these programs cover a wide range of housing needs for Dane County homeowners and buyers.
First-Time Buyers
Down payment and closing cost assistance to make your first purchase possible.
Critical Home Repairs
Roof, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC repairs to keep your home safe and livable.
Accessibility Improvements
Ramps, grab bars, wider doorways, and lifts enabling aging in place.
Energy Efficiency
Insulation, efficient windows, heating systems — lower bills and a greener home.
Lead Paint Removal
Essential safety upgrades for older homes — protecting families from lead hazards.
Major Rehabilitation
Extensive improvements bringing substandard homes up to safe, livable condition.
Ready to Start the
Qualification Process?
CDBG and HOME funds are allocated annually and operate first-come, first-served. Get pre-qualified before you start house hunting so you know exactly what assistance you can receive.
How to Apply
The application process involves verifying your eligibility, connecting with local administrators, and submitting required documentation. Here's what to expect.
Important: CDBG and HOME funding is allocated annually. Programs may not be available every year, and assistance amounts vary based on community needs and available funding. Apply as early as possible — funds are first-come, first-served.
Check Your Income Eligibility
Verify your household income is at or below 80% of area median income for your household size. Income limits are updated annually by HUD.
Contact Your Local Office
Reach out to the City of Madison Community Development Division or Dane County Housing Authority to learn what programs are currently funded.
Identify Available Assistance
Ask specifically about which types of assistance are currently available — programs vary each year based on funding allocations and community priorities.
Submit Your Application
Provide income verification, property details, and complete any required homebuyer education courses. Gather tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements in advance.
Property Inspection
Most repair and rehabilitation programs require a property inspection to assess condition and scope of work needed before assistance is approved.
Receive Your Assistance
Approved grants or loans are disbursed according to program guidelines. Grants go directly to your housing costs; loans are structured based on program terms.
Local Contacts & Where to Apply
CDBG and HOME programs are administered locally — reach out to the appropriate office for your location to learn what assistance is currently available.
City of Madison
Community Development Division
Administers CDBG and HOME programs for residents within Madison city limits.
Dane County Housing Authority
Community Development Division
Serves residents in Dane County communities outside the City of Madison.
Wisconsin Dept. of Administration
Division of Energy, Housing & Community Resources
Oversees statewide housing program allocation and administration.
Program Restrictions & Typical Amounts
Understanding the rules and typical assistance ranges helps set realistic expectations as you navigate these programs.
Program Restrictions
- Cannot use CDBG and HOME for the same purpose
- Must use home as primary residence
- Many programs have minimum occupancy requirements
- Property must meet local housing standards
- Restrictions may apply to resale or refinancing
Typical Assistance Amounts
- Down payment: Varies by local program
- Home repairs: Up to local maximum limits
- Accessibility improvements: Based on assessed need
- Energy upgrades: Varies by scope of work
- Emergency repairs: Usually limited amounts
Explore Other Loan Programs
CDBG and HOME are just one path to homeownership. Here are additional financing options that may suit your situation.
🏠 FHA Loans
- Government-backed security
- Flexible credit requirements
- Lower down payment options
🇺🇸 VA Loans
- No down payment required
- No private mortgage insurance
- Competitive interest rates
🌾 USDA Rural Loans
- Zero down payment
- Below-market interest rates
- Rural development eligible areas
🏦 Conventional Loans
- Flexible loan amounts
- PMI removable over time
- Fast processing times
🗝️ First-Time Buyer Programs
- Education and counseling included
- Down payment assistance
- Special interest rate options
💎 Jumbo Loans
- Amounts above conforming limits
- Competitive rates for qualified buyers
- Luxury home financing available
Not Sure Which Loan Is Right for You?
Let our local experts compare all available options and find the financing solution that fits your situation perfectly.
Quick Eligibility Checklist
Get Housing Help
in Dane County Today
CDBG and HOME programs provide meaningful assistance to homeowners and buyers throughout Dane County. Whether you're buying your first home or making critical repairs, federal funding may be available to help.