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Apply for Affordable Housing

Community Development

The Community Development Department's Housing Division offers access to affordable rental and homeownership units for low, moderate, and middle-income households through City programs. Interested and eligible applicants can apply to the City’s Rental Applicant Pool, Middle-Income Rental Program, Homeownership Resale Pool, and HomeBridge program. 

Interested applicants can learn more about these programs at information sessions held regularly throughout the year. Sessions are free and open to all; no advance registration necessary.

Click here to view upcoming information sessions

Join an email list to receive information about programs and upcoming events related to affordable rental and homeownership opportunities. 

What is the Rental Applicant Pool and How do I Apply?

The Community Development Department’s Housing Division oversees over 700 affordable rental units throughout the city through its Inclusionary Housing Program. All rental units in the program are privately owned and managed, and CDD maintains a pool of eligible applicants to fill affordable rental units when they become available. Applications are accepted on a rolling bases. Priority is given to Cambridge residents and families with children. 

Click Here to Learn More and Download an Application 

Click Here to Read the Rental Applicant Pool FAQ 

Print applications are available at the Community Development Department, 344 Broadway 3rd Floor.

Are There Affordable Housing Programs for Middle- and Moderate-Income Households?

CDD's Housing Division accepts applications to the Middle-Income Rental Program on a rolling basis. Middle-income rental apartments are located throughout the city in developments that are privately owned and managed. Eligible applicants earn between 80-120% of Area Median Income (AMI). View household AMI ranges.  

Learn more about the Middle-Income Rental Program and Download an Application. 

 

What Affordable Homeownership Programs Does the City Offer?

The Community Development Department (CDD) manages several affordable homeownership programs:

Newly developed units are not offered through the Resale Pool. Homebuyers for newly developed units are selected through separate application processes and resulting lotteries. Affordable Homeownership Lottery opportunities will be announced and promoted through CDD's website. If you would like to be notified of lottery opportunities as they become available, sign up for email notifications
  • Downpayment Assistance is offered to income-eligible, first-time homebuyers purchasing a home in Cambridge. Eligible buyers receive assistance of either up to 6% of the purchase price or $10,000 (whichever is greater). This assistance is in the form of a forgivable loan. 20% of the funding is forgiven each year over a 5-year period, provided the buyer uses the home as their residence. 

 

Do Other Organizations in Cambridge Offer Affordable Housing Resources?

Yes, there are many other affordable housing providers in Cambridge:

Page was last modified on 2/8/2024 9:56 AM
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