The Village of DeForest created HomeReach DeForest to support affordable housing development, strengthen the existing housing stock, and expand homeownership opportunities. The program includes funding for qualifying development projects, home improvements, accessibility upgrades, emergency repairs, and downpayment assistance.

General Eligibility

LocationProperty must be within the Village of DeForest
OwnershipApplicant must be the owner-occupant of the property or, in the case of down payment assistance, the future owner-occupant
IncomeHousehold income at the property must be at or below 80% Dane County Median Income. To see 2025 Income levels: Income Limit Chart (PDF)
Owner-FundingApplicant must contribute at least 20% of project costs. For loans, applicant must show household income at least 1.05 times the amount needed to cover debt payments.
Program-SpecificCertain programs have additional eligibility requirements. Check your specific program for more information.

Applications are submitted through the online portal (portal opens May 20th). Applicants will need to include:

  1. $50.00 application fee along with a completed application
  2. Proof of income for all household members. This includes the most recently filed taxes (Form 1040) or a signed statement explaining non-filing, 60 days of income proof (paystubs, SSA, 401K benefit statements, bank statements reflecting income deposits, etc.)
  3. A copy of the homeowner’s insurance policy.
  4. A completed IRS Form W-9.
  5. For accessibility projects, hazard mitigation projects, or home improvement project loans:
    1. Construction plans, design materials, or other descriptive project documentation, and a tentative project schedule.
    2. Itemized description of the proposed/estimated cost for labor and materials necessary for completing the project.