Housing & Preservation
At Brooklyn Neighborhood Services, we believe that homeownership is the cornerstone of a thriving community. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to make critical home repairs, we're here to guide you through every step of the process. Our services provide the resources, education, and financial assistance you need to secure and sustain your home.
Pre-Purchase Education
Our first-time home buyer program will prepare you for the responsibilities of homeownership and connect you to the most affordable mortgage products.
Foreclosure Intervention
Are you behind on your mortgage payments, or concerned that you will become late? BNS can help! Our foreclosure counselors will assess your situation, educate you about the foreclosure process in New York.
Tenant Services
BNS is proud to offer personalized rental housing counseling to New York City residents, geared toward those who are looking to maximize their rental prospects and find the place that is right for them.
Pre-Purchase Education & Counseling
Discover BNS's First-Time Home Buyer Program: Get ready for homeownership with affordable mortgages and assistance. Certified by HUD and NeighborWorksAmerica®, classes cover finance management, home shopping, loans, and contractor selection. Our flexible online course provides homebuyer education at your pace.
Complete the online course to receive your certificate and schedule a one-on-one counseling session with a HUD-Certified Housing Counselor.
HPD Homefirst Down Payment Assistance Program
The HPD HomeFirst Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance Program is designed to empower first-time homebuyers in New York City by providing substantial financial support including:
- Up to $100,000 in assistance
- Household income up to 80% Area Median Income
- Requires 3% personal funds toward down payment
- Eligible properties: 1-4 family homes, condos, and cooperatives in NYC
- Includes a 10-year owner-occupancy requirement
Note: Income and program requirements apply. Attend a Homeownership Education Seminar and counseling session with an approved agency like BNS to qualify.
Foreclosure Intervention
Are you behind on your mortgage payments, or concerned that you will become late? BNS can help! Our foreclosure counselors will assess your situation, educate you about the foreclosure process in New York, teach you how to negotiate with your lender, help you develop a budget and spending plan that works, help you manage your debt, and help you access refinance and modification opportunities.
Tenant Counseling & Education
BNS offers tailored rental housing counseling for NYC residents, helping them optimize rental prospects and navigate tenant rights, landlord responsibilities, and pathways to homeownership. Services include personal finance review, credit analysis, budgeting, and referrals to tenant advocacy services.
Emergency Home Repair Services
BNS administers 'conditional' grants to make the necessary repairs in your home to avoid hazardous living conditions. Grants are made possible through the NYS Affordable Housing Corporation and Project Help.
- Roof repairs
- Kitchen and bathroom renovations
- Electrical
- Plumbing upgrades
- Window and door refurbishments
- Interior and exterior painting
Eligibility
Grants are available to income-qualified, homeowners of 1-4 family homes, condominiums, and co-ops.
Our dedicated construction services team will assist you throughout, from initial scope preparation to project completion.
