​​Housing Cost Reduction Initiative (HCRI)​

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​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The Housing Cost Reduction Initiative (HCRI) was established in 1989 by the Governor and the Wisconsin Legislature​. HCRI is designed to support low- and moderate-income (LMI) households in achieving homeownership. Through this program, the State of Wisconsin allocates funds to help individuals and families access safe, decent, and affordable housing.

The Wisconsin Department of Administration’s Division of Energy, Housing and Community Resources (DEHCR) administers HCRI funds through a biennial funding cycle, awarding grants to eligible applicants across the state.

​​​​​​Eligible Activities​

Eligible HCRI Program activities include:

  • Acquisition: Grantees can assist eligible homebuyers purchase affordable homes by providing down payment support​, closing costs, and/or gap financing assistance to make homeownership attainable.

  • Foreclosure Prevention: Grantees can provide financial assistance on behalf of homeowners to prevent foreclosure and/or utility disconnection. Costs may include mortgage payments, property taxes, principal, interest, and/or arrearages.

HCRI funding cannot be used to provide assistance for development costs, improvements to dwelling units, or payments on a construction or rehabilitation loan.  ​​