Pinellas County introduces housing initiative for veterans, active service personnel

Pinellas County is introducing a home buyer initiative designed for veterans and active service personnel.

The Pinellas Community Housing Foundation's Proud Ground Pinellas program provides move-in ready homes at reduced prices.

The purchase price of a home is greatly reduced because the sale does not include the land. Instead, the homeowner pays a modest monthly ground lease, while enjoying all the benefits of traditional home ownership. For a limited time, a grant of up to $10,000 is available to assist with closing costs.

Funding comes from the federal Neighborhood Stabilization Program.

Foreclosed and/or abandoned properties are purchased and renovated to help stem the negative impacts the properties can have in communities. Proud Ground Pinellas homes feature energy saving amenities and Florida-friendly landscaping to help lower monthly household expenses. Hurricane preparedness enhancements are included.

Participants the program get free home buyer education classes, and the program provides ongoing tools and support to ensure a successful ownership experience.

"Proud Ground Pinellas is an exciting housing opportunity for veterans," said Anthony Jones, executive director of the Housing Finance Authority of Pinellas County. "We appreciate the service and dedication of our military, and hope this new program will assist them with their dream of home ownership."

For information, go online to pinellascounty.org and click on "Proud Ground Pinellas," send email to proudgroundpinellas@pinellascounty.org, or call (727) 464-8210.

Pinellas County introduces housing initiative for veterans, active service personnel 06/30/12 [Last modified: Saturday, June 30, 2012 4:30am]

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