DC 37 Housing Program
The DC 37 Municipal Employees Housing Program is committed to empowering union members with the knowledge, resources, and support needed to achieve affordable, stable, and sustainable housing for themselves and their families.
The program was established in 2005 to guide members through every stage of the homebuying journey, with personalized assistance in preparing for mortgage pre-approval, educational workshops, and access to information on affordable housing resources.
Contact the DC 37 Municipal Employees Housing Program: (212) 815-1814
First-Time Homebuyers
Owning a home is a key step toward financial security and long-term stability. The DC 37 Housing Program supports first-time buyers by providing guidance, education, and resources throughout the homeownership journey. From understanding the mortgage process to exploring grants and affordable housing opportunities, we are here to help members achieve their dream of owning a home with confidence.
What to expect:
Personalized Guidance: One-on-one counseling to prepare for mortgage pre-approval, explore financing options, and navigate the homebuying process.
Educational Support: Access to virtual and in-person workshops covering first-time homebuyer programs and grants.
Pre-Approval Document Checklist:
Use this checklist to get organized before meeting with a lender.
- Proof of Income – Provide recent pay stubs from the past 30 days, last two years of W-2 forms, or the last two years of full tax returns for any co-borrower that is self-employed. For retirees, provide a Social Security or Pension Award letter.
- Proof of Assets – Copies of bank statements, retirement accounts, or other savings.
- Employment Verification – Provide employer contact information or an employment letter confirming your income.
- Credit Report – Obtain a copy of your full credit report. You may download and save as PDF from www.CreditKarma.com or www.annualcreditreport.com.
Ready to Purchase?
Once you have an accepted offer and are ready to purchase, contact an attorney with DC 37’s Municipal Employees Legal Services at 212-815-1111 and an attorney will be assigned to handle your closing. This benefit is available to eligible DC 37 public sector members.
Free Online Training Classes for First-time Homebuyers
Freddie Mac CreditSmart®
Take the Freddie Mac CreditSmart® Homebuyer U training course to help you achieve your financial and homeownership goals. Complete your homebuyer education and obtain a certificate.
Fannie Mae HomeView®
Fannie Mae’s Homeview® Homeownership Education Course aligns with National Industry Standards for pre-purchase homeownership education. Available in English and Spanish.
Affordable Housing Resources
Are you in need of a more affordable rental or need guidance navigating the housing lottery? Here are some helpful resources to assist you in your search:
New York City Housing Connect
NYC Housing Connect is New Yorkers’ portal to find and apply for affordable housing opportunities across the five boroughs of New York City. Use the Housing Connect Training link to familiarize yourself with the Housing Connect website before beginning your Housing Connect Application.
Need assistance filling out your application? Schedule a meeting with an NYC Housing Ambassador.
Questions about Housing Connect? Contact the Affordable Housing Lottery Helpline: (212) 863-7990, nychousingconnect@hpd.nyc.gov.
Other Links
New York City Housing Authority: Apply for affordable housing through the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA).
NY Housing Search: A free service to find affordable homes in New York.
City FHEPS: The City Fighting Homelessness and Eviction Prevention Supplement is a rental assistance program that helps individuals and families find and keep housing.
The Department of Social Services (DSS): Rental assistance programs help New Yorkers experiencing homelessness move out of shelter and into stable housing by providing monthly rent supplements. DSS includes both the Department of Homeless Services (DHS) and the Human Resources Administration (HRA).
Homebase: Provides New Yorkers experiencing housing instability in the community with various homeless prevention services and aftercare services to families and individuals exiting NYC DHS shelter to permanent housing.
Senior Housing
Senior housing in New York City encompasses a range of options, including affordable apartments, assisted living facilities, and continuing care retirement communities. The specific needs and preferences of the senior, such as level of independence, desired amenities, and budget, will determine the most suitable type of housing.
NYC Housing Connect: This online platform provides a centralized hub for affordable housing opportunities, including listings specifically for seniors. You can create a profile, browse available housing lotteries and directly apply to those you qualify for.
New York Foundation For Seniors: A non-profit organization offering various programs, including affordable housing, enriched housing (with supportive services like case management and social activities), and home-sharing initiatives. You can call them at 212-369-5523 or visit their website for information and applications. They operate several subsidized buildings in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens.
NYCHA Senior Housing: The New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) offers affordable housing developments specifically tailored for low-income seniors. These developments may include amenities, services, and rent subsidies, creating a supportive environment.
Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE): The SCRIE benefit assists eligible senior citizen tenants by freezing their rent at the current level and exempting them from future rent increases.
NYC Housing Ambassadors Program: This program, facilitated by HPD, assists low-income older adults (62+) with information and guidance on accessing affordable housing options.