Erie Renters Could Soon Use Section 8 Help to Buy a Home
Starting in 2027, some low-income families in Erie may get help buying a home, not just renting one.
The Housing Authority of the City of Erie (HACE) plans to use federal funds to help with monthly mortgage costs.
What's changing?
The money comes from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through the Housing Choice Voucher program, better known as Section 8.
In 2026, that program provided $7.2 million to help almost 1,000 Erie families rent from private landlords.
Part of the 2027 funding will help up to five of those families buy a home each year.
Most of the money will still go to rental help.
Why it matters
Almost one-quarter of Erie's residents live below the federal poverty level, based on 2025 U.S. Census Bureau data.
That makes buying a home very hard for many families.
"The price of homes isn't getting any cheaper," said HACE Executive Director Dusti Dennis.
She described the new program as one more tool to help Erie families.
Who can take part?
The program is for renters already enrolled in the housing assistance program.
Eligibility depends on several factors, including employment and income.
For example, a four-person Erie family earning under $44,300 a year generally qualifies for housing assistance, per HUD guidelines.
About 1,600 Erie residents are on the waiting list for the broader housing assistance program.
What participants need to do
Buyers must first finish a homeownership education course.
The course covers:
- Budgeting and money management
- Credit management
- Home care and maintenance
Dennis said the authority won't push people into ownership without that training.
Homes must also pass inspections by both the housing authority and an independent home inspector, to confirm they meet health and safety standards.
What will it cost?
Participants generally pay about 30% of their monthly income toward their mortgage, insurance, taxes and related costs.
The housing assistance program covers the rest.
HUD also provides a small amount toward the down payment.
HACE says it can point buyers to other first-time homebuyer programs as well.
What happens next?
HACE will tell HUD about its plan when it submits its annual agency plan in January.
The 2027 draft plan is open for public comment until Dec. 11.
A quick look at the bigger picture
HUD has funded housing assistance since 1974, when the Housing and Community Development Act became law.
Most of that money goes to rent.
Since 2000, local housing authorities have been allowed to use some of it to help families buy homes.
Nationwide, HUD funding helps more than 2.3 million families pay for housing.
Looking for housing support? See if you qualify for Section 8 and local rental assistance. Check eligibility →
