Homebuyers Choose Berwyn for Illinois Building Blocks Pilot Program

BERWYN, IL, December 08, 2012 (Press-News.org) The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) has released an updated report indicating that the City of Berwyn has initiated twenty-two new residential mortgages through the Illinois Building Blocks Pilot Program. The program, managed through IHDA, offers a 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage featuring an affordable interest rate as well as a $10,000 forgivable loan over two years for down payment and closing cost assistance. Through the program, $2,997,729 has been committed to Berwyn homeowners through mortgages and forgivable loans.

IHDA, Illinois's primary housing finance agency, designed the Building Blocks Pilot Program to address vacant and foreclosed homes within five target communities. By broadening the pool of qualified applicants and reducing program restrictions, more homebuyers are eligible to participate in this unique program. "The Illinois Building Blocks Pilot Program demonstrates Governor Quinn's commitment to helping communities rebuild and stabilize in the wake of foreclosures by returning vacant homes to productive use and boosting home values. This work is only made possible through important community partnerships such as with the City of Berwyn," said IHDA Executive Director Mary Kenney.

The City of Berwyn, known for having one of the most significant concentrations of Chicago-style bungalows in the country, has maximized the effectiveness of the Building Blocks Program by hosting workshops for home buyers and educating local real estate agents about the program. Berwyn's quality housing stock, appealing location and vast assortment of shopping and dining options make it an attractive choice for all types of homebuyers. "For generations, people have called Berwyn the City of Homes," said Mayor Robert J. Lovero. "We are proud to partner with IHDA to continue to offer Berwyn's neighborhoods as a beautiful, safe, stable and affordable option for existing and new residents alike."

About the Building Blocks Program:
Please visit: http://www.ihda.org/homeowner/ilbuildingblocksprogram.htm

About the Illinois Housing Development Authority
IHDA (www.ihda.org) is a self-supporting state agency that finances the creation and the preservation of affordable housing across Illinois. Since its creation in 1967, IHDA has allocated more than $11.5 billion and financed approximately 225,000 affordable units across the state.

About the City of Berwyn
Berwyn, also known as the City of Homes, has an outstanding assortment of high quality homes in distinct architectural styles including bungalows, Victorians, American four-squares, and Tudors - and all for unbeatable prices. Incorporated in 1908, Berwyn's rich history is evidenced by one of the most significant collections of Chicago-style bungalows in the nation. Today, Berwyn continues to flourish and take advantage of its close proximity to Downtown Chicago and its bourgeoning economic revitalization. For more information, visit: http://www.whyberwyn.com.