Housing Initiative Partnership (HIP) buys and substantially rehabs vacant single-family homes in older inner-beltway neighborhoods. Sometimes, HIP will also tear down abandoned and dilapidated homes to build new construction on a large lot.

These “HIP Homes” are then sold to first-time homebuyers earning 80% or less of the area median income. We surpassed the 100th – 105th renovation milestones in March 2023 during the 25th year of the HIP Homes Single Family program, which began in Summer 1998.

Rehabilitated HIP homes typically require extensive work and are practically new when completed. In an average rehab, HIP will replace all major systems (roof, gutters, furnace, central air, hot water heater) and heavy up the electrical system. In addition, we will replace the kitchen and bathroom(s), install all new appliances (garbage disposal, dishwasher, refrigerator, stove, washer and dryer), and replace all electrical fixtures and flooring.

As a green developer, HIP places special emphasis on energy and water efficiency as well as the use of sustainable, healthy materials. HIP’s signature feature is the addition of a front porch with brightly colored front and rear door. Not only does an inviting porch dramatically improve the curb appeal of the home, it also encourages the new owners to enjoy sitting out front of their new home while getting to know their neighbors and the community.

To place your name on our INTEREST LIST, please complete the form at left. If you have questions, please contact Dorothea Parker at dparker@hiphomes.org.

Requirements for Purchasing a “HIP Home”

  • Be a first-time Maryland homebuyer, which means buyers cannot have owned property in Maryland within the past three years.

  • Households must earn 80% or less of the area median income based on household size.

  • Buyers must complete pre-purchase homeownership counseling.

  • Buyers must qualify for financing through either a conventional lender, the State of Maryland, or Prince George’s County.  HIP will assist families with this process through its HUD-approved homeownership counseling program.

  • MAXIMUM INCOME BY HOUSEHOLD SIZE

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
    $86,650 $99,000 $111,400 $123,750 $133,650 $143,550 $153,450 $163,350

    Source: US Department of Housing and Urban Development (www.huduser.org), effective June 1, 2024

Looking for Down Payment Assistance?

For a current list of down payment and closing cost assistance resources offered through the State of Maryland, search here:

Many programs require the completion of a Homebuyer Education Workshop or one-on-one counseling session. HIP can help you complete this requirement. Register for HIP’s next virtual seminar today!

For more information about HIP’s Single-Family program, please contact Dorothea Parker at dparker@hiphomes.org.

Above: Delivery of the first passive house to the construction site in Fairmount Heights, in Prince George’s County.

Before and After Images

Ray Leonard Avenue - BEFOREAFTER
Gaylord Drive, Suitland - BEFOREAFTER
Kipling Road Kitchen - BEFOREAFTER