City of Cedar Rapids

View the list of approved lots.
Prior to submitting an application to the program, view the list of properties to determine if there are homes you are interested in purchasing. In most cases, you will have the opportunity to work with the builder through all phases of construction.

Currently, there no properties available.  Please contact us if you would like to be added to our list of interested applicants and we will contact you if anything becomes available, or if there are any changes to the program.

Submit an application.
To qualify for Round 4 of the ROOTs program, applicants must be at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) by household size established by HUD.  Applicants must be approved by the City prior to entering into a purchase agreement with a builder.

Click here for the ROOTs Program Application

Completed applications and supporting documents can be submitted via fax         
(319) 286-5870, Attn: CR Roots) or mailed/hand delivered to the following:  
ROOTs
City of Cedar Rapids - Housing Services
101 First St SE
Cedar Rapids, IA  52401

• Failure to complete the application in full, including the submittal of all required documentation, will result in processing delays.

• All persons over the age of 18 intending to live in the new home must be included on the application and submit the required documentation for their income and assets.

• Applications will be processed within 30 days of application submittal.
• Notification of prequalification or denial will be sent via email unless otherwise requested on the application. 

Secure additional financing.
Applicants will be required to secure financing in addition to the City’s forgivable mortgage in order to participate in this program. Meet with multiple lenders in the community to find the best mortgage product for you and ensure that you can secure financing to purchase the house. A signed loan preapproval letter must be submitted with your application in order to process your application.

Click here for a FAQ Sheet you can take to your Lender

Sign a purchase contract with an approved builder.
Once you have been prequalified by the City and you have received pre-approval for a qualified mortgage, contact an approved builder to learn more about their units. Enter into a purchase agreement with the builder on an approved home.

Submit a signed purchase contract.
Upon receipt of a signed purchase contract, staff will submit your information for a duplication of benefits. The duplication of benefits will identify any assistance received by the applicant as a result of the flooding in 2008. Once completed, you will receive an award letter providing the exact amount of the City’s forgivable mortgage. Only after a signed purchase contract is received on an approved property will funds be committed to an applicant.

Provide contact information for the lender you will be working with.
Approved applicants will work directly with the builder and lender during construction of the home to finalize financing and complete construction of the home. City staff will work with your lender and closing company to make sure all documentation is ready prior to the closing.

Provide periodic updates to Housing Services.
Contact the City if there are changes to the final purchase price. Notify Housing Services when you begin discussing a closing date with your builder and lender. City staff will deliver the check and mortgage documents to your closing. The City's funds will be dispersed to the closing company at the time of closing.