ODR Expands “Own a Lot, Build a Home” Program to Help More First-Time Homeowners Complete Construction

The V.I. Office of Disaster Recovery has expanded its “Own a Lot, Build a Home” first-time homeowner assistance program, allowing more residents across the territory to apply for help constructing or completing a single-family home on previously developed land. The program, funded through the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery Program, now offers gap financing to first-time homeowners and has been broadened to include residents who have already begun construction. According to ODR, the expansion means landowners with partial construction, such as a cistern or foundation, may now seek assistance to build or complete their first home. After recognizing the need to widen eligibility, ODR petitioned the Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to approve a substantial amendment to the program. The amendment was approved on April 28, 2026. “We’ve received numerous inquiries from persons who have begun construction...