COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Development has released guidelines for the next round of the Welcome Home Ohio Program.
In House Bill 96, the state operating budget, the Ohio General Assembly allocated $91.2 million in funding over the biennium for eligible entities to purchase qualifying residential properties and to rehabilitate or construct homes.
There is also $20 million in nonrefundable tax credits available through the biennium for qualifying rehabs and new construction once a property is sold.
“The Welcome Home Ohio Program helps communities expand access to safe, affordable housing while revitalizing neighborhoods,” said state Rep. Monica Robb Blasdel, R-79th. “By investing in local housing projects, we’re supporting families, strengthening our communities and helping more Ohioans find a place to call home.”
The application period will open at 10 a.m. Dec. 8 and close at 5 p.m. Jan. 16, 2026.
The Welcome Home Ohio Program, created by the General Assembly last budget cycle, has awarded nearly $60 million to support the creation of 481 homes in 26 counties. House Bill 96 made several changes to allow for greater participation and expanded eligibility.
The Ohio Department of Development will host a webinar at 10 a.m. Nov. 5 to present the guidelines in detail and allow potential applicants to ask questions.
For more information on eligibility, project requirements and the application process, visit the Ohio Department of Development’s website.