Frequently Asked Housing Questions
Does the City have a first time homebuyer program?
Due to a lack of funding, the City no longer operates the First Time Buyer Downpayment Assistance Program, but our Inclusionary Housing Program offers eligible homebuyers the opportunity to purchase a home as detailed below.
I can't afford to buy a home in Huntington Beach. Does the City have a program to help?
The City’s Inclusionary Housing Program is available to help eligible homebuyers. Throughout the City, there are several hundred homes (condos, town homes, and detached houses) that are restricted to low, median, and moderate-income buyers currently priced from around $300,000 to the high $500,000’s, depending on the size, type, and location of the home. When any of these homes are sold, they must be sold to an eligible buyer and their price must be affordable.
Homes become available when a homeowner decides to sell or when new affordable developments are built. These homes are sold through Realtors, and not through the City. Anyone interested in looking at a home that is for sale or finding out the selling price of a home needs to contact the Realtor selling the home.
- Link to Specific FAQ's about the City's Inclusionary Housing Program
- Link to Other Homebuyer Programs
Can I get a list of houses for sale in Huntington Beach?
The City only has information on affordable homes for sale under the Inclusionary Housing Program.
I can’t afford an Inclusionary Housing Program home in Huntington Beach. What other programs are available?
I own an affordable home, and I want to sell. What do I need to do?
You will need to get an Inclusionary Housing Program packet and submit the Request for Sales Price Determination form to the City. It is your responsibility to have the City calculate your maximum affordable sales price before you execute a sales agreement with a potential buyer. It is also your responsibility to find an income-eligible buyer and to have that buyer approved by the City. Any sale of an affordable home that has not gone through these steps will not be allowed.
I own an affordable home, and I want to refinance my mortgage. What do I need to do?
The City has limits on the amount of debt allowed on Inclusionary Housing Program homes. If you are refinancing to obtain better loan terms, and you not taking any cash out, your refinance will be allowed. You should have your lender or escrow company call the City for an application. If you are planning on refinancing in order to take cash out or if you intend to place an additional loan on your home, you should call the City to see if your proposed new loan(s) fall within the allowable debt limits. The City can be reached at (714) 536-5542.
I own an affordable home, and I just found a Deed of Trust recorded on my home by the City. What is this for and can it be removed?
There is a Deed of Trust recorded on each home under the City’s Inclusionary Housing Program. This Deed of Trust is described in the Conditions, Covenants, and Restrictions (CC&R’s) also recorded on each affordable home. In most cases, the Deed of Trust does not represent any monetary obligation of a homeowner to the City; it only secures enforcement authority of the project’s affordability requirements. Because these requirements will remain in effect for up to 45 years, depending on the affordability period of the project, the Deed of Trust and CC&R’s will not be removed.
I’m behind in my mortgage payments and about to lose my housing. Can the City help me?
The City does not have an emergency mortgage assistance program.
Does Huntington Beach have Section 8 housing?
The Orange County Housing Authority administers the Section 8 Program in Huntington Beach. The Housing Authority can be contacted at:
Orange County Housing Authority
1770 N. Broadway
Santa Ana, CA 92706-2680
(714) 480-2700
How can I get HUD housing?
The Orange County Housing Authority administers the HUD Section 8 rental assistance program in Huntington Beach. The Housing Authority can be contacted at: Orange County Housing Authority
1770 N. Broadway
Santa Ana, CA 92706-2680
(714) 480-2700
Does Huntington Beach have any low-income housing?
There are a limited number of apartment buildings in Huntington Beach that have subsidized rents that are available for families at various income levels. Each building has its own eligibility criteria, application process, and waiting list.
I’m behind in my rent and about to lose my housing. Can the City help me?
The City does not have an emergency rent assistance program.
My landlord is evicting me; can the City help me from losing my housing?
The City does not get involved in landlord/tenant disputes; however, there are fair housing agencies that are available to help in cases of discrimination.
My landlord is not making needed repairs to my apartment. Who can I call for help?
The City has codes setting the minimum standards for the condition of housing to provide a healthy and safe living environment. The City’s Code Enforcement division can be reached by calling (714) 375-5155.
Where can I find information on mobile home parks in the city of Huntington Beach?
There are 18 mobile home parks in the city of Huntington Beach. To view a map showing the locations of the parks click here for map. The City of Huntington Beach also oversees the Mobile Home Advisory Board (MHAB) which meets once a month to discuss mobile home-related issues. For more information on the MHAB click on Mobile Home Information.
Did you know?
Solar chimneys are passive solar ventilation systems. Shafts connect the interior and exterior of the building. The functioning can be improved by glazing and using thermal mass materials. Learn more about solar.
Contact Information
City of Huntington Beach
Office of Business Development
2000 Main Street
Huntington Beach, CA
Phone: (714) 536-5582
Fax: (714) 375-5087
