Can’t Qualify for a Mortgage? You Still Deserve a Home

Traditional mortgages don’t work for everyone—especially if you're self-employed, use an ITIN, or are still rebuilding credit. But that doesn’t mean homeownership is out of reach.

The Earned Equity Program lets you choose your home, move in right away, and build equity over time—without needing to qualify for a mortgage upfront.

Verify Your Earned Equity Loan Eligibility
House and coins depicting home equity program

No Mortgage Needed to Start and Choose the Home You Want.

Ideal for ITIN, Self-Employed & Credit-Challenged Buyers.

Backed by a Federally Recognized Tribal Agency.

What Is the Earned Equity Loan Program?

Move In Now. Build Equity. Buy When You're Ready.

The Earned Equity Loan Program helps buyers who can’t qualify for a traditional mortgage move into a home and start building equity right away.

You choose the home, a trusted housing agency buys it, and you make monthly payments similar to a mortgage.

Over time, you earn equity and can take full ownership when you're financially ready.

It’s designed for self-employed individuals, ITIN holders, and those with limited or damaged credit.

This program offers a safe, flexible alternative to renting—without needing mortgage approval upfront.

Who the Earned Equity Loan Program Is Perfect For

This program is designed for people who are ready to own a home but don’t meet traditional mortgage requirements. It’s a perfect fit if you:

Are self-employed, a gig worker, or paid in 1099 income.

Use an ITIN instead of a Social Security number.

Have low credit, limited credit history, or past financial setbacks.

Recently went through a divorce, job change, or bankruptcy.

Have stable income and savings but were denied by a lender.

If you’ve been told “not right now” by banks—but you know you’re ready—this program gives you a second chance to become a homeowner.

Earned Equity Loan Program Benefits

The Earned Equity Loan Program offers a flexible, secure path to homeownership for those locked out of traditional financing. Key benefits include:

No mortgage needed to move in.

Choose your own home — not limited to pre-selected inventory.

Build equity while you live in the home.

Refinance or assume the loan when you're ready.

Backed by a federally recognized tribal housing agency.

Full legal protections and transparency.

Perfect for ITIN holders, self-employed buyers, and those with credit challenges.

Earned Equity Loan Program Requirements

To qualify for the Earned Equity Loan Program, applicants must meet a few basic criteria:

Stable, verifiable income (self-employed or W-2).

Some savings for initial costs like taxes, insurance, and program fees.

Willingness to maintain the home and make on-time monthly payments.

Primary residence only — no second homes or investment properties.

Home must be in an eligible area (availability varies by location).

How to Apply for the Earned Equity Loan Program

The first step is to check your eligibility online for free. It takes just a few minutes and doesn’t require a credit check or commitment.

If you qualify, you’ll be connected with a program specialist who will guide you through the next steps.

From there, you’ll choose a home in an eligible area, review and sign your agreement, and prepare to move in.

Once you're in the home, your monthly payments begin building equity toward future ownership.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Earned Equity Loan Program

Here are answers to common — but often overlooked — questions about how the Earned Equity Loan Program works and what to expect.

How much money do I need upfront to join the program?

You’ll need enough to cover the first month’s payment, property taxes, homeowners insurance, and a one-time program fee — typically much less than a standard down payment.

Can I qualify if I’ve had a recent bankruptcy or foreclosure?

Yes, as long as you have steady income and can show financial stability, past credit events like bankruptcy or foreclosure won't automatically disqualify you.

What types of homes can I choose from?

You’re not limited to a pre-set list — you can shop for any move-in ready home that qualifies for the program in your area.

Who owns the home while I’m making payments?

A federally recognized tribal housing agency holds the title during the lease period, until you refinance or assume the loan to take full ownership.

Are the monthly payments similar to rent or a mortgage?

They function like a mortgage, covering principal, interest, taxes, insurance, and program costs — but without needing to qualify for a loan upfront.

Can I renovate or customize the home while I’m in the program?

Modifications typically require approval, but many basic updates or cosmetic improvements are allowed, especially if they increase the home’s value.

What happens if I miss a payment or need to move out?

If life changes, you can end your agreement with proper notice; the program is structured to offer more flexibility than a mortgage or lease with a private landlord.

Is there a time limit for when I have to buy the home?

No — you can stay in the program as long as you meet the agreement terms, and you can buy the home whenever you’re financially ready.

Can I use this program if I’ve been denied by multiple lenders?

Yes, that’s exactly who the program was built for — people with the income and responsibility to own a home, but who don’t fit the traditional lending box.

Will I work with a real estate agent or someone from the program?

You’ll be matched with a program specialist who helps guide the process, but you can also use your own agent when searching for a home.

Get the Expertise You Need to Secure Your First Home

We specialize in helping people who have been turned away by traditional lenders find a real, secure path to homeownership through the Earned Equity Loan Program.

Our team understands the challenges faced by self-employed buyers, ITIN users, and those with credit issues, and we’re committed to guiding you through every step of the process.

From checking your eligibility to choosing a home and moving in, we offer personalized support, transparent information, and a proven process backed by a federally recognized housing agency.

When you work with us, you’re not just applying for a program — you’re partnering with people who believe homeownership should be possible for everyone.