BUNCOMBE COUNTY, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Eligible Buncombe County homeowners have an opportunity to receive financial assistance for housing-related costs.

Now in its fourth year, the inquiry process for the 2024 Homeowner Grant Program has opened up to the public, a release from Buncombe County government says. The website buncombecounty.org/homeownergrant will be accepting inquiries through Sept. 30 or homeowners can call (828) 250-5500. You must call or submit an inquiry to determine eligibility. Phone support is available in any language.

“Please note that we anticipate a high volume of calls and inquiries at the onset, and it may take a few weeks for a case manager to get back with you,” the county’s release says.

Eligible homeowners in unincorporated Buncombe County may qualify for up to $300 and homeowners within Asheville city limits may qualify for additional funds up to $200. Applicants who received grants last year will need to re-apply for this year’s program.

Those qualified can choose to have grant funds applied to their property tax bill and/or paid and applied to other housing-related obligations such as housing costs, mortgage, or homeowner’s insurance. The county’s release says payments are made directly to the source of the approved bill. Payments will not be made directly to individuals. There are several new aspects to this year’s program including new eligibility requirements, and now mobile-home owners may receive the grants.

  • You must have owned and lived in your home for 5 years or more
  • Your home must by your primary and only residence
  • Your household income is at or below 80% of area median income (AMI)
  • Your household cannot already be receiving tax deferment assistance like elderly/disabled, or Veterans exemptions.
  • You must not have more than $60,000 in liquid resources (for example: your cash on hand, checking & savings accounts combined, or other investments available to you within 7 days)

“If you think you may qualify, but you aren’t sure, please give our team a call,” Economic Services Director Phillip Hardin says in the county’s press release. “We know there are a number of unique circumstances, and our staff will work with homeowners to help find solutions.”