The City of Mobile is giving police officers and firefighters a leg up on buying their first home through a new Public Safety Down Payment Assistance Program.
Qualifying first responders can receive up to $20,000 toward a down payment and closing costs. If the home they purchase sits on a formerly blighted property, the assistance rises to as much as $30,000. Funding comes from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Mayor Sandy Stimpson framed the program as a neighborhood-strengthening tool as much as an employee benefit.
“Not only does home ownership improve these first responders’ quality of life, but it improves their neighbors’ quality of life too,” Stimpson said in a news release. “When a police officer or firefighter lives in your neighborhood, it reduces crime, improves property values and creates a more vibrant neighborhood.”
Interested applicants can learn more by calling 251-208-6292.