At Operation Lifeline Inc., our mission is to expand access to affordable, safe, and sustainable housing for veterans and underserved families and individuals. We offer a range of pathways to homeownership, including traditional models and non-traditional options, such as the Community Land Trust (CLT) model, which helps keep homes affordable for future generations.

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Who We Serve

Our Homeownership Program focuses on assisting:

• Veterans and their families

• Low-to-moderate income families and individual (households earning at or below 80% of the Area Median Income, AMI)

• First-time homebuyers seeking support through the homebuying process 

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Program Features

Our program offers several key pillars to support potential homeowners:

1. Affordable Housing Access
   We make homeownership more attainable by offering homes at below-market rates to eligible families. This includes innovative models like the Community Land Trust (CLT) to help keep homes affordable long-term. Under this model, homeowners purchase the home, but the land remains under the ownership of a nonprofit trust, which lowers the overall cost of homeownership and ensures that the property remains affordable for future buyers.

2. Down Payment Assistance
   Through partnerships with local, state, and federal programs, we provide down payment assistance, helping qualified buyers reduce upfront costs and making homeownership more accessible.

3. Financial Counseling and Homebuyer Education
   Our program includes financial counseling and homebuyer education workshops to guide buyers through the process. We help families build credit, understand budgeting, and navigate the complexities of homeownership.

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Community Land Trust Model

The CLT model is a unique approach to affordable homeownership. In this model, a nonprofit organization (the land trust) retains ownership of the land, while the homebuyer purchases the structure. This arrangement keeps the cost of homeownership lower and makes homes more affordable for individuals and families who might otherwise struggle to buy a home.

How the CLT model works:

• Affordable Purchase: The homebuyer purchases the home but leases the land from the trust for a nominal fee, lowering the initial cost of homeownership. Under Florida's Live Local Act, these properties are exempt from property tax, further improving affordability.

• Long-Term Affordability: By maintaining ownership of the land, the trust ensures that the home continues to serve as affordable housing for future generations, creating a sustainable solution for housing insecurity.

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Why Work with Us.

• Veteran-Focused: As a veteran-led organization, we are committed to providing housing solutions specifically tailored to the needs of veterans and their families.

• Community Partnerships: We work closely with the local, state and federal government agencies, lenders, and community organizations to make homeownership possible for low-to-moderate income families. 

• Sustainable Homeownership: Our homes are designed with sustainability in mind, using energy-efficient materials and practices that help reduce the cost of homeownership over time. This focus ensures long-term affordability and minimizes ongoing expenses for homeowners.

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How to Apply

If you’re interested in learning more or applying for our Homeownership Program, including options under the Community Land Trust (CLT) model, please email us at info@oplifeline.org or call (904) 863-3099 to get started.