Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed an executive order to enhance awareness of affordable housing programs across the state, aiming to help more young residents purchase homes at reasonable prices.
Since taking office, Whitmer has expanded affordable housing options through a series of landmark programs designed to strengthen Michigan’s economy, provide social stability, and lower costs for residents. However, many Michiganders — especially younger people — remain unaware of these opportunities and their eligibility.
According to the official Michigan government website, Whitmer’s administration remains committed to ensuring that everyone has access to safe, affordable housing. The state will continue to invest heavily in building and rehabilitating homes as it has over the past seven years.
“I’m proud of the work we’ve done to expand affordable housing for every Michigan family,” Whitmer said. “These programs allow more people to buy their dream home, rent great apartments, and live in thriving communities. We’ve made great progress, but more young Michiganders need to know and benefit from these opportunities.”
Empowering Michigan’s Future Homeowners
The governor added that the executive directive will help more residents learn about the housing programs her administration has built. “I will keep working with everyone to help more families succeed in Michigan,” she said.
Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II echoed the sentiment, stating: “Every Michigander deserves a safe, affordable place to raise their family in a vibrant community. Across Michigan, we’re building affordable homes, revitalizing neighborhoods, and investing in people, places, and projects.”
He added that the executive order ensures young people have the resources they need to buy or rent homes. “Let’s keep working until every Michigander finds a great place to live.”
Amy Hovey, CEO and Executive Director of the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), praised the initiative, saying: “We’re proud to support Governor Whitmer’s directive to expand access and awareness of homeownership programs for young Michiganders. We’ll continue statewide efforts to promote competitive mortgage rates and down payment assistance programs, ensuring more residents can achieve financial stability through homeownership.”
Executive Order Details:
Governor Whitmer’s directive instructs MSHDA to expand outreach by revising its marketing and communication strategies for programs that reduce barriers to homeownership and affordable renting.
MSHDA offers several programs to help Michigan residents purchase their first home or manage rental costs. However, many residents are unaware of their eligibility or even the existence of these programs.
The directive also emphasizes reaching communities with disproportionately low homeownership rates — particularly Michiganders aged 18 to 35 — to ensure equitable access and participation.
Other state departments were instructed to collaborate with MSHDA to support affordable housing initiatives across Michigan.
Investments and Expansion in Affordable Housing:
Governor Whitmer has made record investments in housing. In 2021, she launched Michigan’s first statewide housing plan, setting a goal to build or rehabilitate 75,000 housing units within five years. After achieving that target ahead of schedule in August 2025, she raised the goal to 115,000 units.
In 2023, Whitmer invested $1.23 billion in affordable housing production and preservation — nearly doubling to $2.16 billion in 2024.
Additionally, her administration launched programs to lower costs for homebuyers. In 2023, MSHDA invested $608 million to support 4,402 homebuyers, increasing to $772 million in 2024 to assist 5,082 buyers.
Last year, Whitmer also launched a $50 million Mortgage Relief Program, lowering interest rates for first-time buyers by up to one percentage point. The state further offers down payment assistance up to $10,000, and federal tax savings.
In February 2025, Michigan introduced the First-Generation Homebuyer Assistance Program, providing up to $25,000 in down payment aid. Both programs quickly reached capacity, highlighting the strong demand for affordable homeownership.
MSHDA expects to invest over $1 billion this year alone in homeownership programs, supporting mortgages in all 83 counties of Michigan.
Homeowner and Renter Assistance Programs:
MSHDA’s programs offer competitive mortgage rates, homebuyer education, and up to $10,000 in down payment aid. The state’s goal is to ensure every Michigander can find and afford a suitable home in the community they choose.
Homeownership remains a key pathway for families to build wealth, enter the middle class, and achieve the American Dream. Expanding access to homeownership also stabilizes neighborhoods and strengthens communities across Michigan.