Homebuyer Initiated Program

Welcome to
Affordable Homeownership

The Homebuyer Initiated Program (HIP) is a homeownership program through which Rondo CLT assists households at or below 80% Area Median Income (AMI) purchase and fix up a single-family home (including duplexes) of their choice in St. Paul or Suburban Ramsey County.

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How It Works

From Application to Purchase

Application and Education

To get started with HIP, prospective buyers must submit an application, register, and successfully complete a mandatory First Time Homebuyer course.

Enrollment

After completing the required pre-purchase education and application process, buyers are eligible for enrollment in the program.

Benefits

Individuals or families enrolled in the HIP program receive two grants to help them secure a home: (1) an Affordability Investment Grant which pairs with a mortgage to amplify buying power; and (2) a Rehab Grant that covers the cost of essential repairs and improvements to ensure the structural and mechanical integrity of the purchased home.

Purchase

Homebuyers enrolled in HIP collaborate with Rondo CLT and have the flexibility to work with a real estate agent of their choice to identify suitable homes that meet program criteria and make an offer on them. Rondo CLT's team also provides guidance and support throughout the home-buying process, from identifying suitable properties to negotiating purchase contracts and closing the deal.

Rehab

Upon the home purchase, Rondo CLT collaborates with the homeowner to create a scope of work and hire contractors for necessary rehabilitation and deferred maintenance tasks on the property.

Ongoing Support

We are committed to maintaining ongoing communication with you to ensure that we can provide the necessary support for your continued success, improved quality of life, and overall well-being.

HIP Parameters

Program Requirements Overview

01

Homes must be in Ramsey County.

02

Homes must be single-family (including duplexes).

03

Household income must be less than 80% AMI at time of closing.

Young couple sitting at table signing documents, with the man shaking hands with a person sitting opposite of them

04

Households must work with one of Rondo CLT's approved mortgage lenders.

2024 Area Median Income Guidelines - Minneapolis - St. Paul - Bloomington, MN (Effective May 2nd, 2024)

Household Size
AMI%	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8
30%	$26,100	$29,800	$33,550	$37,250	$40,250	$43,250	$47,340	$52,720
50%	$43,500	$49,700	$55,900	$62,100	$67,100	$72,050	$77,050	$82,000
60%	$52,150	$59,600	$67,050	$74,500	$80,500	$86,450	$92,400	$98,350
80%	$68,500	$78,250	$88,050	$97,800	$105,650	$113,450	$121,300	$129,100
100%	$86,950	$99,400	$111,800	$124,200	$134,150	$144,100	$154,050	$163,950
115%	$100,000	$114,300	$128,600	$142,850	$154,300	$165,750	$177,150	$188,600
120%	$104,350	$119,250	$134,150	$149,050	$161,000	$172,900	$184,850	$196,750

How to Apply

Follow these simple steps to begin your journey towards affordable homeownership

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

You are eligible to apply if: (1) You have a household income below 80% Area Median Income (AMI); and (2) You plan to purchase a home in St. Paul or Ramsey County

Step 2: Attend an Introductory Community Land Trust Orientation

This orientation will teach you the basics about community land trusts and give you an opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

Step 3: Complete an Application for HIP

Applications are available at the Introductory Community Land Trust Orientation and are reviewed on a first come-first served basis.

Step 4: Complete a Homebuyer Education Workshop

This workshop gives you the basic tools to move through the home buying process with knowledge and comfort regardless of where, when, or how you purchase your home. Home Stretch is offered at a variety of times by many groups across the Twin Cities metro. Visit the Minnesota Home Ownership Center website to learn where you can register for a workshop today!

Step 5: Apply for a Mortgage

There are specific banks and specific loan officers that currently provide mortgage financing for Rondo CLT’s homeownership programs.

A shot of a lot of people sitting inside, at a Rondo CLT orientation event

Register for Orientation

To get started with HIP, prospective buyers must submit an application, register, and successfully complete a mandatory First Time Homebuyer course.

List of Approved Lenders

Repairing the Past, Building for the Future

Your Right to Return to Rondo

Homebuyers who finished enrolling in the Homebuyer Initiated Program (HIP) may qualify for additional investment through the Right to Return to Rondo Initiative.

The Right to Return to Rondo Initiative is designed to create homeownership opportunities for those displaced by the construction of I-94 or their descendants to repair the economic, social, and cultural harm caused by the destruction of 700+ homes and 300+ businesses in the historic Rondo Neighborhood.