Oakland County Home Buyer Assistance Program Shares First Year Successes, Applications Still Accepted
(Oakland County Treasurer, Jan 20, 2026)
Oakland County, MI – Oakland County Treasurer Robert Wittenberg announced that $270,000 in grants have been awarded through the Oakland County Treasurer’s Office Independent Bank Home Buyer Assistance Program since its launch in September 2024. As of December 31, 2025, the program has helped 54 first-time homebuyers purchase homes in 23 Oakland County communities, including Ferndale, Lake Orion, Southfield, Waterford and White Lake, with an average purchase price of $244,000. The program continues to accept applications.
Funded by the Oakland County Treasurer’s Office and managed by Independent Bank, the program was created to address affordability barriers and increase access to homeownership for income-eligible residents across the county. Eligible Oakland County homebuyers can receive a $5,000 grant per household for the down payment and/or closing costs of their first home purchase.
“This milestone represents steady, measurable progress in expanding access to homeownership,” said Oakland County Treasurer Robert Wittenberg. “Our collaboration with Independent Bank has helped qualified buyers reduce upfront costs, purchase homes in communities across Oakland County, and contribute to the economic strength and stability of those communities.”
In today’s real estate market, many first-time buyers face reduced purchasing power and struggle to save for competitive down payments, which on average range from 14% to 20% nationwide, according to recent national homebuyer and real estate market data.
In contrast, research from the Mortgage Bankers Association shows that typical first-time buyers often contribute only 6% to 9% toward a down payment. This grant program helps first-time homebuyers who need modest but meaningful assistance to close that gap, overcome upfront affordability barriers and achieve sustainable homeownership and long-term financial stability.
To qualify for the Oakland County Treasurer’s Independent Bank Home Buyer Assistance program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
First-time homebuyers purchasing a primary residence in Oakland County.
Have a qualifying household income at or below 120% of the county’s Area Median Income (currently $123,240 for 2025).
Contribute at least $1,000 in personal funds.
Complete pre-purchase counseling.
Obtain mortgage financing through Independent Bank.
“It is great to see the vast success that the Oakland County Treasurer’s Office Independent Bank Home Buyer Assistance Program has had over the past year,” said Patrick Ervin, Executive Vice President of Mortgage at Independent Bank. “Creating increased opportunities and access to homeownership benefits the entire community.”
The program is currently accepting applications, and eligible homebuyers are encouraged to apply. Complete eligibility requirements and application details are available at oakgov.com/dpassist.
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