Ohio Programs

Government Grants & Incentives for Real Estate Investors in Columbus

Columbus is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Midwest with a rapidly expanding affordable housing gap. Ohio Housing Finance Agency's LIHTC program, combined with the Columbus Housing Trust Fund and CRA tax abatements, create strong incentive packages for investors.

26 designated tracts
Opportunity Zones
$1,146
Section 8 (2-BR)
LIHTC
Tax Credits Available
4
Local Programs

State Housing Finance Agency

Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA)

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Public Housing Authority

Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA)

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Local Programs

Columbus Government Incentive Programs

These programs are available specifically to investors and developers in the Columbus, OH market.

Columbus Affordable Housing Trust Fund

City-funded trust providing gap financing for affordable housing development and preservation projects.

OHFA LIHTC Program

Ohio allocates LIHTC credits through OHFA, with Columbus-area projects receiving strong allocation due to growth.

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Columbus CRA Tax Abatements

Community Reinvestment Area tax abatements providing 100% real property tax exemption for up to 15 years on new construction.

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Franklin County HOME Program

Federal HOME funds distributed through Franklin County for affordable rental housing and homebuyer assistance.

LIHTC Tax Credits in Ohio

Low-Income Housing Tax Credits are the largest source of affordable housing financing in the U.S. In Ohio, credits are allocated by OHFA.

How LIHTC Works

  • Dollar-for-dollar federal tax credit over 10 years
  • 9% competitive credits for new construction
  • 4% credits paired with tax-exempt bonds
  • 15-year compliance period for affordable rents

Ohio Allocator

Credits are allocated by OHFA through their Qualified Allocation Plan (QAP), which outlines scoring criteria and priorities.

View OHFA LIHTC Program
Investor Tips

Why Invest in Columbus?

CRA tax abatements provide 100% property tax exemption for 15 years

Columbus is one of the few Midwest cities with consistent population growth

Intel's $20B chip plant is driving massive housing demand in central Ohio

Affordable entry points with strong appreciation trajectory

Finance Government-Incentivized Properties in Columbus

FundNow Capital provides DSCR loans, bridge financing, and portfolio loans that complement government incentive programs in Columbus.

DSCR Loans

Qualify using Section 8 rental income — government-backed rents strengthen your DSCR ratio.

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Bridge Loans

Short-term financing to acquire and stabilize properties before permanent LIHTC or agency financing.

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Portfolio Loans

Finance multiple properties in Columbus's Opportunity Zones under a single loan structure.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Get Financing for Investment Properties in Columbus

Tell us about your Columbus investment plans. We'll match you with the best financing options within 24 hours.

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