The Ohio Land Bank Association (OLBA) is committed to making homeownership more accessible and affordable for Ohioans. The Welcome Home Ohio Program is a critical initiative that supports new homeownership opportunities and revitalizes communities by ensuring that affordable, high-quality housing remains within reach.

Key Program Updates & Improvements:
  • Qualified Residential Housing
    • Amends minimum home size reduced from 1,000 sq. ft. to 800 sq. ft.
    • Manufactured homes allowed; mobile homes remain ineligible.
  • Counseling Program
    • Establishes a homeownership and financial literacy course, including home maintenance training.
    • Removes the one-year requirement for counseling participation.
  • Counseling Provider
    • Defines counseling providers as profit or non-profit entities licensed to offer homeownership and financial literacy training.
  • Income Eligibility
    • Adjusts qualifying median income from 80% AMI to 120% AMI.
  • Occupancy Requirements
    • Reduces the occupancy requirement from 5 years to 3 years.
    • Modifies the penalty structure based on the subsidy amount.
  • Affordability Restriction
    • Adjusts from 20 years to 15 years.
    • Adds a first right of refusal for the lead applicant to acquire the property.
  • Financial Assistance
    • Grant amount increased from $30,000 to $90,000.
    • Property sale price cap increased from $180,000 to $220,000.
    • Introduces financial counseling funding up to $2,000 per grant.
  • Annual Occupancy Certification
    • Now required only upon request by ODOD.
  • Tax Credit Adjustments
    • Changes tax credit eligibility from $90,000 or 1/3 of total project costs to $90,000 or 90% of total project costs.

Why These Changes Are Necessary
These program enhancements are critical to addressing Ohio's housing needs.
  • Reducing the minimum home size and allowing manufactured homes expands affordable options, particularly for first-time buyers and those with lower incomes;
  • Expanding eligibility for mixed-use properties promotes economic development while increasing housing supply;
  • The shift in income eligibility to 120% AMI better reflects the realities of homeownership costs and ensures middle-income families are not left behind;
  • Simplifying deed restrictions and modifying occupancy requirements provide greater flexibility for homebuyers while maintaining affordability goals;
  • The increase in financial assistance and tax credits makes homeownership more attainable and encourages investment in affordable housing;
  • Streamlined certification requirements reduce unnecessary burdens on homeowners while maintaining program integrity;

What You Can Do to Help!
  • Reach out to your state legislators – Let them know how these program updates will support your community’s revitalization efforts. Personal stories and local impact matter!
  • Stay engaged – Once we have the legislation drafted (it is in the process now), we will provide you with materials and guidance to help you request their support for the bill.
  • Spread the word – Encourage local officials, economic development partners, and community stakeholders to join us in advocating for this funding.