URA Announces Closure of OwnPGH Applications

Today, the Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh (URA) announced the closure of applications for the OwnPGH Homeownership Program (OwnPGH).  

OwnPGH was made possible through an allocation of $15,625,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding from the City of Pittsburgh. The goal of the program was to boost affordable homeownership opportunities for buyers looking to purchase a home within the City of Pittsburgh.  

Since launching in January 2023, and as of July 25, 2024, OwnPGH has successfully assisted 133 homebuyers. Of those homebuyers, 88 percent identified as a minority or woman head of household. Additionally, 57 of the OwnPGH participants were new residents to the City of Pittsburgh.*

“We are proud to have supported and invested in so many homebuyers through these once-in-a-lifetime ARPA dollars. Though the OwnPGH Program is coming to a close, the URA remains deeply committed to making homeownership attainable and creating generational wealth building opportunities for our Pittsburgh community,” said Chief Housing Officer Quianna Wasler. “We couldn’t have swiftly administered this funding without the strong support and participation of the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh and our banking partners - First Commonwealth Bank, SSB Bank, Dollar Bank, and S&T Bank. They were there for every open office hour event we held, and at the ready to assist community members new to the homebuying process, and for that we thank them.” 

The URA continues to administer its Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance Program, made possible through the city’s Housing Opportunity Fund. Through this program, first-time homebuyers making less than 80% of the Area Median Income may be eligible to receive up to $7,500 for down payment and closing costs in the form of a 0% interest, 5-year deferred loan. Those interested in future financial assistance to purchase a home within the City of Pittsburgh are encouraged to contact the URA about this resource at hof@ura.org or 412-255-6574. 

Additionally, the URA’s OwnPGH banking partners remain ready to assist individuals and households who are looking to purchase a home.  

*A final program count will be reported at a later date, once all home closings of current clients are complete.