SDHDA Governor's House Program | South Dakota Housing 2025

SDHDA Governor's House Program is administered by SDHDA to promote affordable homeownership,

rehabilitation, or rental stability throughout South Dakota. The program combines fixed‑rate first mortgages

with down‑payment assistance, tax credits, or forgivable loans such as the Community Home Improvement Program

(CHIP). Borrowers benefit from statewide HUD‑approved education courses, post‑purchase budget coaching, and

foreclosure‑prevention resources. Funds are accessed through a network of SDHDA‑participating lenders or

municipal housing departments on a first‑come, first‑served basis. Properties must meet South Dakota

housing‑quality standards, and rehabilitation draws are inspected prior to payment to safeguard workmanship.

Rural borrowers may layer USDA 502 financing, while urban applicants can combine Neighborhood Stabilization

Program grants for targeted revitalization areas.

• U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or qualifying non‑citizen.

• Household income ≤ SDHDA county limits (e.g., $105,000 for a family of four in Minnehaha County, 2025).

• Purchase‑price cap aligned with FHA/USDA limits or $400,000, whichever is lower.

• Minimum 620 credit score (680 for conventional loans).

• Debt‑to‑income ratio ≤ 45 % (up to 50 % with compensating factors).

• Completion of HUD‑approved homebuyer education and SDHDA counseling.

• Affordable homes starting at $65,500 applied toward down payment, closing costs, or rehab escrow.

• 30‑year fixed‑rate mortgage at below‑market interest.

• Forgivable assistance after five years of owner occupancy (for programs like Fixed Rate Plus).

• Eligibility for Mortgage Credit Certificates to reduce federal tax liability.

• Access to SDHDA foreclosure‑prevention hotline and homeowner resources.

1. Pre‑approval: Engage an SDHDA‑approved lender; review credit and income.

2. Education: Complete HUD‑certified homebuyer course; receive certificate.

3. Reserv​e funds: Lender locks SDHDA rate and requests assistance funds.

4. Underwriting & appraisal: Provide documentation and undergo property inspection.

5. Closing: Sign first‑mortgage and subordinate‑lien documents; receive funds.

6. Post‑purchase: Move in within 60 days; comply with occupancy and forgiveness terms.