Apply Through July 31 For Moderate Income Housing Unit Program

COLUMBIA, MD — Individuals have until July 31 to apply for Howard County's moderate income housing unit program. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the county department of housing and community development will not be hosting its regularly scheduled in-person renter and homeownership informational workshops during its July open enrollment period. However, the presentations from each of these informational workshops are available online.

“Homeownership improves economic mobility and expands opportunity for generations as families build wealth,” said Howard County Executive Calvin Ball in a news release. “Through our MIHU program, we are creating affordable homeownership opportunities to help families call Howard County home as we foster safe and engaged communities."

To purchase an MIHU home, individuals must apply during an open enrollment period to be placed in the database. To qualify, an applicant’s household income may not exceed 80 percent of Howard County’s median income. Applicants must meet minimum credit score requirements and household income must be sufficient to qualify for a mortgage based on industry standards. Sale prices for MIHUs available now currently range from $245,000 for a new condo to $370,000 for a new townhouse. Actual sale prices may vary depending on the size and amenities of the unit.

Homeownership opportunities are currently offered at below-market sales prices in several communities, including Delacour at Blue Stream in Elkridge, Paddock Pointe in Laurel, River Overlook and the Yards at Oxford Square in Hanover, and Trotters Knoll in Ellicott City. Previously owned condominiums and townhomes throughout the county are also for sale under the MIHU program as they become available. With historically low interest rates now available, individuals and families with incomes as low as $65,000 or slightly less may qualify to purchase a home. MIHU homeownership program applications are available online.

To rent an MIHU unit, a qualified applicant’s household income may not exceed 60 percent of the Howard County median income. MIHUs are rented on a first-come, first-served basis, are interspersed throughout each community and residents enjoy the same amenities of community life as market rate tenants. Alta at Regency Crest, Annapolis Junction, Ashbury Courts, Azure Oxford Square, Belmont Station, Brompton House, Burgess Mill Station II, Dartmoor Place, Miller’s Grant, Mission Place, Orchard Meadows, Orchard Park, Penniman Park, Townes at Pine Orchard, The Refinery, The Vine and Verde II currently participate in the MIHU program. Prospective renters may apply directly to a participating rental community at any time during the year. Visit DHCD’s open enrollment website for more information.