$2,000 Grants Up For Grabs for First-Time Buyers in Long Island & Queens

The New York State Association of REALTORS® Housing Opportunities Foundation is offering eligible first-time homebuyers an opportunity to win a $2,000 grant to help cover closing costs or a down payment. These grants are gifts—they never need to be repaid—and are available to income-qualified buyers across New York State.

Double Your Chances with a Homebuyer Course

Want to boost your odds of receiving a $2,000 grant? Submitting a certificate of completion from a first-time homebuyer course gives you two entries in the monthly grant lottery instead of one. The course is optional but highly encouraged because it increases your chances of being selected. A copy of the certificate can be included in your initial application. 

View upcoming homebuyer courses at Long Island Housing Partnership.

What is the NYSAR Housing Grant?

The NYSAR Housing Opportunities Foundation was created to expand access to affordable housing and remove some of the financial barriers that keep people from becoming homeowners. In partnership with the Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region, the program accepts and reviews applications, awarding grants on a monthly lottery basis.

Required Qualifications for Grant Submissions

• Be a first-time homebuyer (as defined by State of NY Mortgage Association - SONYMA) which means you have not owned a primary residence in the past 3 years and do not currently own a vacation or investment property

• Be purchasing an owner-occupied home in New York State

• Use a licensed REALTOR® during the transaction

• Submit a loan pre-approval letter and W2, 1099, or K1

• Fall within 110% of SONYMA’s income and purchase price limits based on your county

• Submit a complete online application BEFORE closing on a property

Financial Limits for Long Island & Queens

See full multi-family and target-area limits here.

Why Apply?

• The $2,000 grant can be used for closing costs or down payment assistance

• You do not need a SONYMA loan to apply

• First-time homebuyer course completion = double entry in the monthly lottery

• Funds are a true grant that do not need to be repaid

Next Steps

• If you're planning to buy soon, don’t wait—submitting your application before your closing is essential

• Apply at: https://app.nysarhousingfoundation.com

• Submit required documents, including pre-approval letter and income form

Applications are reviewed monthly, with notifications within 30–45 days. Winners are chosen at random via a lottery system. Questions may be directed via email only to cegan@nysar.com.