Application Process Guide
-
1
Access the Renew NC Grant Portal
Sign in to your Renew NC Grant Portal account.
New users must register for an account.
-
2
Start an Application
How the Application Becomes Available
The full application does not open on its own. It becomes available only after the prescreen step is resolved in one of two ways:
- Complete the prescreen: If you choose to participate in the optional prescreen, DCR opens your full application after the prescreen is finished.
- Opt out of the prescreen: If you choose not to participate in the prescreen, DCR opens your full application so you can begin directly.
In both cases, DCR opens the application for you. You will receive an email notification from DCR program staff when it is ready. Once you log in, the application appears on your dashboard and you can start it using the steps below.
Please note: Once the full application phase begins, the option for prescreen technical assistance is no longer available, and this step cannot be reversed.
Access the Application
Upon logging in, the participant dashboard will become visible, including a list of the program(s) available for new applications.
- Select “Start Application” next to the program that you would like to complete an application for.
- In the pop-up window that appears, enter in the case name using the format suggested ‘Organization Name – Project Name’.
- Select “Start Application” to begin the application process.
- Select “Click here to continue” to move on to complete the application for your potential project.
Please note:
- This application permits one project with a maximum of five site locations.
- Applicants must create a new application for each separate project they wish to submit.
- Multiple projects may not be combined or submitted under a single application. If you are applying for funding for more than one project, repeat the application process and complete a separate application for each project.
Complete each section listed in the left-hand navigation menu. Sections are lettered A through I and conclude with the Certifications and Submit section. As you finish each section, a check mark appears next to it. All sections must be complete before the application can be submitted.
-
3
Section A: Applicant Information
This section collects profile information about the entity applying for CDBG-DR Workforce Housing for Ownership (WHFO) Program funds. Please provide complete details for your organization.
Note the following:
- The applicant must be a legal entity eligible under the WHFO Program.
- The primary contact should be the individual responsible for managing the application process.
- A valid Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number and SAM.gov registration status are required for eligibility.
- Indicate whether the individual signing this application has the legal authority to bind the organization.
- Supporting documentation will be required in the Compliance Section (Section H) of the application that supports your answers. A list of the requested documents can be found in the Documentation Checklist, which is provided for the applicant’s optional use.
Enter the following information on this step:
- A.1. Legal Name of Applicant Entity – Enter the full legal name of the organization.
- A.2. Type of Entity – Select the applicable entity type (community land trust, for-profit housing developer, non-profit housing developer including CHDO or CBDO, local government, public housing authority, joint venture, or other).
- A.2a. Type of Entity (Other) – If “Other” is selected for Type of Entity, enter a brief description of the entity type.
- A.3. Mailing Address – Enter the organization’s mailing address.
- A.4. Active SAM.gov Registration – Indicate whether your legal entity has an active SAM.gov registration.
- A.5. Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) – Enter the organization’s UEI.
- A.6. Authorized Officer and Primary Signatory – Enter the name and title of the individual authorized to sign on behalf of the organization.
- A.7. Primary Contact Name – Enter the primary point of contact.
- A.8. Primary Contact Title – Enter the contact’s title.
- A.9. Primary Contact Email Address – Enter a valid email address.
- A.10. Primary Contact Phone Number – Enter a valid phone number.
- A.11. Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) – Enter the organization’s FEIN.
- A.12. Third-Party Designee (TPD) – Indicate whether there is a third-party designee responsible for working on this application on your behalf.
- A.12a. TPD First Name – Enter the designee’s first name.
- A.12b. TPD Last Name – Enter the designee’s last name.
- A.12c. TPD Email Address – Enter the designee’s email address.
- A.12d. TPD Organization Legal Name – Enter the legal name of the designee’s organization. Select the checkbox to authorize the designee to act on your behalf, including making decisions.
Save and Continue
- Select "Save" to store your entries and return later, or
- Select "Complete and Continue" to proceed to the next section of the application.
Once all required fields in this section are completed, a check mark will appear next to Section A: Applicant Information in the left-hand navigation menu.
Note: Applicants may use the left-hand menu to navigate back and forth between sections at any time. Completed sections remain editable unless the application has been submitted.
-
4
Section B: Project Eligibility
Applicants must meet all threshold criteria to advance in the application process. Eligibility requirements for the applicant, project, and property/site can be found in the Workforce Housing For Ownership Policies & Procedures manual. In addition to other requirements, applicants must demonstrate that the proposed project:
- Meets an eligible activity listed in Section 105(a) of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 (HCDA), see our Policies & Procedures (DCR Renew NC Multi-Family Construction and Repair Program Policies and Procedures) manual for additional guidance;
- Satisfies a CDBG-DR National Objective LMH Benefit;
- Directly ties back to unmet needs caused by Hurricane Helene; and
- Is located within HUD-identified most impacted and distressed (MID) county.
Supporting documentation will be required in the Compliance Section (Section H) of the application that supports your answers. A list of the requested documents can be found in the Documentation Checklist, which is provided for the applicant’s optional use.
Please note:
If your project has gone through the prescreen process, the one-line project address shown is read-only and provided for your convenience. Please copy it into the address fields below using a standard multi-component address format. Otherwise, please enter the address directly in the fields.
Enter the following information on this step:
- B.1. Project Location Address Submitted in Prescreen – Confirm the project location address submitted during the Prescreen Step.
- B.1a. Project Location Address – Enter the full project location address, including the street address, city, state, and ZIP code. This is required even if the project location has not changed from the address provided during the Prescreen Step.
- B.1b. Most Impacted and Distressed (MID) County – Select the MID County in which the project will be located.
- B.1c. Total Estimated CDBG-DR Funding Request of this Project Location – Enter the estimated CDBG-DR funding requested for this site location.
- B.2. Is there an additional project address? – Indicate whether there is a second site address. Note that up to five project locations may be entered with this application.
- B.2a. Additional Project Address – Indicate whether there is a third site address, then enter the full address, select its MID County, and enter the estimated CDBG-DR funding requested for this site location.
- B.2b. Additional Project Address – Indicate whether there is a fourth site address, then enter the full address, select its MID County, and enter the estimated CDBG-DR funding requested for this site location.
- B.2c. Additional Project Address – Indicate whether there is a fifth site address, then enter the full address, select its MID County, and enter the estimated CDBG-DR funding requested for this site location.
- B.3. Project Description – Describe the project in sufficient detail using the fields below.
- B.3a. Housing Need – Describe the housing need the project addresses.
- B.3b. Project Objectives – Describe the objectives of the project.
- B.3c. Scope of Work – Describe project activities, including any acquisition, demolition, construction, repair, debris removal, and rehabilitation. Clearly describe the physical scope of work for the entire project, focusing on what will be built, rehabilitated, or removed. Describe activities rather than budget line items or procurement.
- B.3d. Project Outcomes and Benefits – Describe the outcomes and benefits the project will produce.
- B.3e. Key Project Features – Describe the key features of the project.
- B.3f. Population(s) Served – Identify the population(s) the project will serve.
- B.3g. Planned Unit Types – Describe the planned unit types.
- B.3h. Description of Existing and/or Proposed New Buildings – Describe existing and/or proposed new buildings.
- B.3i. Additional Project Amenities – Describe any additional project amenities.
- B.4. Site Conditions – Indicate whether any part of the proposed project is located in any of the following.
- B.4a. Airport Runway Approach Zone – Indicate Yes or No.
- B.4b. Sites with Known Toxins / Severe Contamination – Indicate Yes or No.
- B.4c. Conversion or Acquisition of Farmland – Indicate Yes or No. Applicants must comply with the Farmland Protection Policy Act (FPPA).
- B.4d. Non-Encroachment Area – Indicate Yes or No.
- B.4e. Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) – Indicate whether any portion of the project is in a special flood hazard area (SFHA) as defined on FEMA’s flood maps.
- B.4f. Regulatory Floodway – Indicate whether any portion of the project site is in a regulatory floodway.
- B.4g. 500-Year Floodplain – Indicate whether any portion of the project site is in the 500-year floodplain.
- B.5. Demonstrate Tie-Back – Describe how the proposed project demonstrates a direct link to housing needs triggered or aggravated by Hurricane Helene, including unit loss, household displacement, or unmet needs in impacted counties or communities.
- B.6. 5+ Units Under Common Ownership and Management – Indicate whether the proposed project will include at least five residential units under common ownership and management during development.
- B.7. Real Property Qualification – Indicate whether the property will qualify as real property under North Carolina law, including being permanently affixed to land and transferable by deed.
- B.8. For-Sale Residential Use – Indicate whether the property will be designed as for-sale residential use.
- B.9. National Objective – CDBG-DR housing projects must meet a HUD National Objective as required by the 2025 Revised Universal Notice. The primary national objective of the WHFO Program is Low- and Moderate-Income Housing (LMH). See the program Policies & Procedures manual for additional guidance.
- B.9a. Project Impact – Indicate the projected impact of the project including total rental units created or preserved, total affordable units created or preserved, and any supportive services or partnerships if applicable. See help text for details on accurately completing this section.
- B.9b. Affordability Plan – Describe your plan for meeting affordability requirements. The plan must define income verification procedures and describe how the required 15-year affordability period will be enforced, monitored, and maintained over time.
- B.10. Down Payment Assistance – Indicate whether the applicant will provide down payment assistance.
Save and Continue
- Select "Save" to store your entries and return later, or
- Select "Complete and Continue" to proceed to the next section of the application.
Once all required fields in this section are completed, a check mark will appear next to Section B: Project Eligibility in the left-hand navigation menu.
-
5
Section C: Project Information
This section gathers details about the proposed WHFO project. Applicants must describe the status, readiness, and physical characteristics of the development to support the overall viability of the proposed development.
Supporting documentation will be required in the Compliance Section (Section H) of the application that supports your answers. A list of the requested documents can be found in the Documentation Checklist.
Enter the following information on this step:
- C.1. Project Name – Enter the name of the project.
- C.2. Target Area / Site Description – Identify the geographic boundaries of the project and surrounding community. Include a map or parcel list in the Compliance Documentation section.
- C.3. Project Type – Select the project type.
- C.4. Total Estimated Project Cost – Enter the total estimated project cost.
- C.5. Total CDBG-DR WHFO Program Funds Requested – Enter the total CDBG-DR WHFO Program funds requested.
- C.6. Estimated Start Date – Enter the estimated project start date.
- C.7. Estimated Completion Date – Enter the estimated project completion date.
- C.8. Zoning Support – Indicate whether the project site’s zoning supports its end use of single-family residential. If not, provide the status of progress and timeline for completion of zoning approval.
- C.9. Site Control Status – Select the current status of site control. If applicable, please enter the expiration date of the lease or purchase option, or explain other site control.
- C.10. Occupants – Indicate whether there are any residential or commercial occupants on the site.
- C.11. Tenant Relocation – Indicate whether any residential or commercial tenants have relocated from the site in the last 90 days.
- C.12. Acquisition – Indicate whether the proposed project involves or will involve an acquisition.
- C.13. Demolition – Indicate whether demolition of any structures is planned or required.
- C.14. Infrastructure Access – Indicate whether the site has access to required infrastructure, including direct access by an existing paved, publicly maintained road.
- C.14a. Infrastructure Progress – If No, provide an explanation, including all needed infrastructure improvements to serve the project and the timeline for completion.
- C.15. Environmental Review Status – The State is the Responsible Entity (RE) for Environmental Review for WHFO Program projects. Provide the following information.
- C.15a. Environmental Review Progress – Indicate whether any environmental review has begun or been completed, and provide details.
- C.15b. Existing Environmental Conditions – Indicate whether any existing conditions of environmental significance are located on the project site, and provide details.
- C.16. Permit Status – Describe the status of any required permits. Indicate whether permits have been submitted, are in progress, or have been approved, and include dates or other supporting information where relevant.
- C.17. Resilience and Sustainability – Describe how the design will incorporate resilience and sustainability standards. Projects must integrate risk-reduction and sustainability features to qualify under HUD’s disaster-resilience performance expectations. See the Policies & Procedures manual for the full description of Mitigation Performance Measures, then summarize resilience measures in the table provided.
- C.18. Flood Mitigation and Hazard Resilience – Describe the project’s plan to comply with flood mitigation requirements and other hazard resilience best practices, if applicable. This includes radon testing/mitigation and lead-based paint and asbestos testing/mitigation for pre-1978 structures.
- C.19. Homebuyer Underwriting Criteria – Applicants are responsible for determining the eligibility of all homebuyers applying for WHFO Program assistance. Clearly articulate your plan for the following requirements. See the WHFO Policies and Procedures for program requirements.
- C.19a. Homebuyer Eligibility – Describe your plan for determining homebuyer eligibility.
- C.19b. Homebuyer Education and Readiness – Describe your plan for homebuyer education and readiness.
- C.19c. Homebuyer Financial Contribution – Describe the required homebuyer financial contribution.
- C.19d. First Mortgage Structure – Describe the first mortgage structure.
- C.19e. Housing Debt Evaluation – Describe how housing debt will be evaluated.
- C.19f. Refinancing and Subordination – Describe your plan on refinancing and subordination.
Save and Continue
- Select "Save" to store your entries and return later, or
- Select "Complete and Continue" to proceed to the next section of the application.
Once all required fields in this section are completed, a check mark will appear next to Section C: Project Information in the left-hand navigation menu.
-
6
Section D: Capacity of the Applicant, Construction Partner(s), and the Property Management Team
This section collects information about you, as the applicant, your construction partner(s), and the property management team. Please provide information about the staff, finances, experience with similar projects, and compliance history.
Supporting documentation will be required in the Compliance Section (Section H) of the application that supports your answers. A list of the requested documents can be found in the Documentation Checklist.
Enter the following information on this step:
- D.1. Name of the Applicant – Enter the name of the applicant.
- D.2. Housing Experience – Enter how many years of experience the entity has developing or, if applicable, managing publicly funded affordable housing.
- D.3. Partners and Commitments – List all partners for this project, including joint ventures and construction partners. For each partner, provide the partner organization, partner role/position, staff name, title, responsibility/scope of work, and total years of CDBG-DR experience.
- D.4. Project Management – Provide the following information about project management.
- D.4a. Project-Management Structure – Describe the project-management structure and governance, including roles, decision-making process, and meeting frequency.
- D.4b. Key Project Management Staff – List key project management staff and their qualifications, including company name, staff name, title, total years of CDBG-DR experience, and qualifications.
- D.5. Grant Management - Indicate whether the lead applicant will receive significant grant management support from a partner (e.g., Council of Government, North Carolina League of Municipalities, North Carolina Association of County Commissioners, UNC School of Government, or a third-party consultant).
- D5a. Grant Management Partner – If Yes, complete the Grant Management Partner table with the company name, partner role, staff name, title, total years of CDBG-DR experience, and qualifications.
- D.6. Homebuyer Compliance Oversight – Describe the oversight that will be provided to ensure compliance with homebuyer eligibility and recordkeeping.
- D.7. Cross Cutting Regulations - Identify the staff or contractors responsible for the four CDBG-DR cross-cutting regulatory compliance roles. For each, add a new row and provide the cross-cutting regulatory requirement, role/position, staff or contractor name, and responsibility/scope of work.
- D.8. Open Findings – List any open findings related to past federal or state grants managed by the applicant.
Save and Continue
- Select "Save" to store your entries and return later, or
- Select "Complete and Continue" to proceed to the next section of the application.
Once all required fields in this section are completed, a check mark will appear next to Section D. Capacity of the Applicant, Construction Partner(s), and the Property Management Team in the left-hand navigation menu.
-
7
Section E: Community Need
This section gathers essential details about the proposed WHFO project and its level of response to the unmet housing need in the proposed area.
Supporting documentation will be required in the Compliance Section (Section H) of the application that supports your answers. A list of the requested documents can be found in the Documentation Checklist.
Enter the following information on this step:
- E.1. Evidence of Housing Shortage – Describe the evidence that demonstrates a shortage of affordable housing in your project’s area, such as a market study or housing needs assessment. You will be asked to provide a copy of these documents before submitting your application.
- E.2. Addressing the Gaps – Describe how the proposed project addresses these gaps.
- E.3. Alignment with Local Plans – Describe how the proposed project aligns with local recovery plans or housing plans.
- E.4. Community Partnerships and Feedback – Describe community partnerships and stakeholder feedback used to shape the project.
- E.5. DDA or QCT Location – Indicate whether the project is located in a Difficult Development Area (DDA) or Qualified Census Tract (QCT). See pages 74–75 of the State of NC Action Plan Non-Substantial Amendment 2.1 for descriptions.
Save and Continue
- Select "Save" to store your entries and return later, or
- Select "Complete and Continue" to proceed to the next section of the application.
Once all required fields in this section are completed, a check mark will appear next to Section E: Community Need in the left-hand navigation menu.
Note: Applicants may use the left-hand menu to navigate back and forth between sections at any time. Completed sections remain editable unless the application has been submitted.
-
8
Section F: Budget and Leveraged Resources
Provide a detailed financial plan identifying total project costs, committed leverage, and the proportion of non-CDBG-DR funding.
Supporting documentation will be required in the Compliance Section (Section H) of the application that supports your answers. A list of the requested documents can be found in the Documentation Checklist.
Enter the following information on this step:
- F.1. Total Estimated Project Cost – Enter the total estimated project cost.
- F.2. Total CDBG-DR WHFO Program Funds Requested – Enter the total CDBG-DR WHFO Program funds requested.
- F.3. Other Leverage Committed – Enter the amount of other leverage committed to the project.
- F.4. Leverage Ratio (Non-CDBG-DR : CDBG-DR) – The system calculates the leverage ratio of non-CDBG-DR to CDBG-DR funds.
- F.5. Percentage of Total Non-CDBG-DR Project Costs – The system calculates the percentage of total non-CDBG-DR project costs.
- F.6. Cost-Reasonableness Standards – Provide a short summary describing how unit pricing, estimates, or bids were determined. All costs must comply with 2 CFR Part 200, Subpart E.
- F.7. Sources of Assistance – Disclose all sources of financial assistance received or anticipated for the same project or purpose. CDBG-DR funds may only cover unmet needs that remain after accounting for other funding sources, such as FEMA, SBA, insurance, tax credits, and private or philanthropic sources.
- F.8. Financial Security Timeline – Describe when the project is estimated to be fully financially secure and provide a timeline.
- F.9. Other Loan Terms – Provide the basic terms and conditions of any project loans, including interest rate, amortization, and maturity.
- F.10. Contingency Funding – Describe what contingency funding or credit enhancements are available if costs increase.
Save and Continue
- Select "Save" to store your entries and return later, or
- Select "Complete and Continue" to proceed to the next section of the application.
Once all required fields in this section are completed, a check mark will appear next to Section F: Budget and Leveraged Resources in the left-hand navigation menu.
Note: Applicants may use the left-hand menu to navigate back and forth between sections at any time. Completed sections remain editable unless the application has been submitted.
-
9
Section G: Achieving Results
This section collects information about the total number of residential units produced by the project.. This information is used to determine compliance with income targeting, affordability period requirements, and Fair Housing obligations.
Supporting documentation will be required in the Compliance Section (Section H) of the application that supports your answers. A list of the requested documents can be found in the Documentation Checklist.
Enter the following information on this step:
- G.1. Affordability Period – Enter how long the project’s affordability period will be.
- G.2. Total Units Created or Preserved – Enter the total number of units created or preserved by this project.
- G.3. Total LMI Units Created or Preserved – Enter the total number of LMI units created or preserved by this project.
- G.4. Percentage of LMI Units – The system calculates the percentage of the project’s LMI units.
- G.5. Additional Affordability Measures – Describe any additional ways the project will promote long-term affordable housing, if applicable.
Save and Continue
- Select "Save" to store your entries and return later, or
- Select "Complete and Continue" to proceed to the next section of the application.
Once all required fields in this section are completed, a check mark will appear next to Section G: Achieving Results in the left-hand navigation menu.
Note: Applicants may use the left-hand menu to navigate back and forth between sections at any time. Completed sections remain editable unless the application has been submitted.
-
10
Section H: Compliance Documentation
Please attach the following supporting documentation. Each item should be clearly labeled and cross-referenced in the application submission. A list of the requested documents can be found in the Documentation Checklist, which is provided for the applicant’s optional use.
- Storm Tie-Back: Applicants must demonstrate a clear tie-back to the impact of Hurricane Helene. Preferred documentation includes pre- and post-disaster condition reports, FEMA or NC Emergency Management data, or comparable local assessments.
- Environmental Review Status & Supporting Documents (if applicable): Applicants are reminded that CDBG-DR funds are subject to HUD’s environmental review requirements under 24 CFR Part 58. No choice-limiting actions (e.g., acquisition, demolition, construction, or rehabilitation) may occur until the environmental review is complete and HUD has issued the Authority to Use Grant Funds (AUGF). If available, applicants must provide documentation of the current environmental review status, including any consultations under related federal laws (e.g., Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, Endangered Species Act, and floodplain/wetland reviews).
- Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act (URA), if applicable: Applicants must adhere to the URA regulations under Section 104(d) and 49 CFR Part 24 when receiving CDBG-DR funds. This applies to any person who moves from the real property or moves their personal property from real property as a direct result of an acquisition, rehabilitation, or demolition for the proposed project. Applicants must provide documentation of occupancy for all current tenants and prior tenants from the last 90 days at the proposed site, as well as any documentation relating to the acquisition, relocation, or demolition activity if applicable. Acquisition documentation must include an appraisal of the project site.
- Planned or Completed Acquisition, including appraisal
- Current Residential and Commercial Tenants
- Prior Residential and Commercial Tenants from the last 90 Days
- Staff Capacity and Experience: Applicants must demonstrate official entity existence, sufficient capacity and experience to manage the proposed project, as well as disclose any conflicts of interest. Please submit the following:
- Last two years of audited or reviewed financial statements, including Form 990s where applicable. Please note that if your application moves forward, DCR may ask for written financial policies and procedures, organizational chart detailing roles and responsibilities relative to financial controls, procurement policies, narrative of internal control structure, etc.
- Authorized Signatory Documentation giving full signatory authority in regard to contracts and agreements, such as a board resolution, bylaws, policy, etc.
- Disclosures of any identified conflicts of interest
- Current SAM.gov Registration Record
- Describe the entity’s experience with similar residential housing projects as well as state/federal grant management (CDBG, CDBG-DR, ARC, ARPA, HTF, LIHTC, etc.) within the last ten years using the worksheet provided. Housing Experience Worksheet
- Please complete the HUD Form 2880 and upload it here
- IRS Determination Letter (nonprofits only)
- Copies of appropriate licenses and/or professional certifications of all office and field staff responsible for project delivery.
- An organizational chart specific to the CDBG-DR WHFO funding of the proposed project, including CDBG-DR cross-cutting regulations such as Davis-Bacon Labor Standards and Section 3.
- Individual resumes for the project team demonstrating a track record of project completion, successful operation of affordable housing development, and compliance with federal regulations throughout operations.
- Secretary of State Business Registration Record (non-municipality only)
- Please complete the W-9 Form and upload here (excluding nonprofits)
- Site Map and Legal Description of Project Site: Applicants must submit a current site map and full legal description of the project site. The site map must clearly show parcel boundaries, surrounding land uses, road access, floodplain and wetland overlays (if applicable), and proximity to public infrastructure (e.g., water, sewer, transportation). The legal description must match recorded property documentation (e.g., deed or survey) and identify parcel identification numbers (PINs) or assessor’s references. If multiple parcels are included, applicants must provide a consolidated map and description covering the full development footprint. Maps must be drawn to scale and include a north arrow, legend, and date of preparation. In addition, a FIRMette map is required that shows the parcel relative to the floodplain. Applicants must also submit site plans and current zoning documentation. Sites must be zoned for single-family residential use or demonstrate a clear path to rezoning approval within 90 days of conditional award.
- FIRMette Map
- Site Map (parcel boundaries) and Legal Description or Consolidated Map and Description for multiple parcels (if applicable)
- Zoning documentation
- Resilience Standards: Applicants must submit documentation of sustainable design to reduce utility costs and improve resilience. Projects must integrate risk-reduction and sustainability features to qualify under HUD’s disaster-resilience performance expectations. Projects should be designed and constructed to withstand chronic stresses and extreme weather. Energy-efficient design should be consistent with standards such as Enterprise Green Communities or ENERGY STAR. See the Policies & Procedures manual for a full description of Mitigation Performance Measures.
- Floodplain Management Strategy (if applicable): If the project site is located within or adjacent to a FEMA-designated floodplain or floodway, applicants must describe planned mitigation measures and demonstrate compliance with Executive Order 11988 on Floodplain Management. Strategies must include, at minimum, confirmation of compliance with local floodplain ordinances, elevation or floodproofing measures consistent with FEMA requirements, and documentation of coordination with the local floodplain administrator. Projects located in floodways may be deemed ineligible if compliance cannot be demonstrated.
- Proof of Site Control Documentation: Applicants must provide current, legally binding documentation establishing site control (e.g., recorded deed, fully executed purchase agreement, long-term lease, or valid option contract). Site control must be maintained through the anticipated date of the property's sale to an eligible homebuyer.
- Community Alignment: Applicants must demonstrate alignment with community needs and objectives. The applicant should submit:
- Evidence demonstrating housing needs, such as a market study or housing needs assessment.
- Letters of Support from local government and community stakeholders. Letters from the local government should include how they plan to specifically support the proposed project.
- Partnership Agreements with Service Providers
- Documentation of proposed project site in a DDA or QCT
- DDA or QCT Documentation
- Housing Need Documentation
- Letters of Support and/or Commitment, or Memorandum of Understanding (MOUs)
- Partnership Agreements and/or Publicly Noticed Meetings or Resolutions
- Letter(s) of Funding Commitment (non-CDBG-DR): Applicants must attach formal, binding commitment letters for all non-CDBG-DR financing sources, including LIHTC allocations, HOME funds, state housing trust funds, tax-exempt bonds, or private debt/equity. Conditional or speculative letters of intent will not satisfy this requirement. All commitments must specify the amount, terms, and conditions of funding.
- Scope of Work with Cost Estimates: Applicants must submit a detailed scope of work for the project. The scope must identify required repairs, replacements, or improvements and include line-item cost estimates consistent with industry standards, reflect current market pricing, and support the overall project budget submitted with the application.
- Down Payment Assistance Plan: Please upload the Down Payment Assistance Plan for the project, if applicable.
- Budget Workbook: Applicants must provide a detailed budget showing anticipated income and expenses. Applicants should identify any public or permanent subsidies assumed in the projections and demonstrate how long term put a hyphen in long-term affordability and sustainability will be extended to a range of income eligible households. DCR’s requirements around funding structure and underwriting are found in the program’s policies and procedures.
- Affordable Fair Housing Marketing Plan (AFHMP): Applicants may attach an AFHMP that is consistent with the HUD requirements and anticipated Homeowner Selection Plan. Applicants are encouraged to utilize the AFHMP form developed by HUD and must outline proactive steps to inform, attract, and serve members of groups who are least likely to apply without targeted outreach.
- Loan Terms and Conditions: Applicants must submit the terms and conditions of all project loans obtained.
- Detailed Construction Timeline with Milestones: Applicants must submit a construction and expenditure timeline that identifies key milestones, including acquisition, financing closing, permitting, construction start, major construction phases, substantial completion, and placed-in-service dates. The timeline must also show expected expenditure drawdowns to support alignment with CDBG-DR grant disbursement schedules.
- Insurance Documentation (Builder’s Risk, General Liability, etc.): Applicants must provide proof of applicable insurance coverage, including Builder’s Risk, General Liability, Property, and Workers’ Compensation (as applicable). Coverage must meet or exceed industry standards and lender requirements, and evidence of coverage must be maintained throughout both construction and operations.
- Draft Land Use Restrictive Agreement (LURA) or Regulatory Agreement: If applicable to the proposed project, applicants may attach a sample or draft LURA (or equivalent regulatory agreement) that will govern affordability and income/rent restrictions consistent with CDBG-DR requirements. The LURA must specify:
- The affordability period and applicable income targeting (e.g., 80% AMI households).
- Income restrictions aligned with HUD guidelines.
- Monitoring and enforcement provisions.
- Remedies for non-compliance.
- Applicants may also submit any proposed draft lien documents or any documents to be required of/signed by homebuyers (i.e. the note, deed of trust, mortgages).
- Repayment Guarantees or Risk Mitigation Instruments (if applicable): If required or available, applicants must provide documentation of risk mitigation measures, such as repayment guarantees, performance bonds (required), or letters of credit. These instruments should demonstrate the applicant’s ability to cover potential cost overruns, compliance issues, or other financial risks that may arise during project development.
Save and Continue
- Select "Save" to store your entries and return later, or
- Select "Complete and Continue" to proceed to the next section of the application.
Once all required fields in this section are completed, a check mark will appear next to Section H: Compliance Documentation in the left-hand navigation menu.
Note: Applicants may use the left-hand menu to navigate back and forth between sections at any time. Completed sections remain editable unless the application has been submitted.
-
11
Section I: Certifications
Please provide the following information:
By signing below, the applicant certifies that:
- The information provided in this application is true and complete to the best of the applicant’s knowledge.
- It understands that the submission of this application does not guarantee funding.
- It and the project will comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and policies governing CDBG-DR funds, including but not limited to those set out in this Certifications section, as well as those found in the Renew NC Workforce Housing for Ownership Program Policies and Procedures.
- If, after submission, any change occurs to any of the material information provided in this application while the application is pending consideration with DCR, the applicant will disclose the same and update that information with DCR as soon as practicable after becoming known to it.
- It has not within a five-year period preceding this certification been convicted of or had a civil judgment rendered against them for commission of fraud or a criminal offense in connection with obtaining, attempting to obtain, or performing a public (Federal, State or local) transaction or contract, violation of Federal or State antitrust statutes or commission of embezzlement, theft, forgery, bribery, falsification or destruction of records, making false statements, or receiving stolen property.
- It is not presently for or otherwise criminally or civilly charged by a governmental entity (Federal, State, or local) with the commission of any of the offenses enumerated in paragraph 5 of this certification.
- It has not, within a five-year period preceding this certification, had one or more public projects (Federal, State, or local) terminated for cause of default.
- It has not, within a five-year period preceding this certification, had a bankruptcy, adverse fair housing or civil rights settlement, or mortgage default or arrearage of three months or more.
- It possesses legal authority to apply for the grant and execute the proposed program activities.
- If applicable, that it has secured from its governing body all necessary internal approvals, or its governing body has duly adopted or passed, as an official act, all necessary resolutions, motions or taken similar action authorizing the filing of the application, including all assurances contained therein and to provide all additional information as may be required.
- If applicable, it has facilitated or will facilitate and comply with all citizen participation requirements, including but not limited to:
- Providing citizens with an opportunity to participate in the determination of priorities in community development and housing needs;
- Providing adequate notices for one or more public hearings;
- Holding one or more hearings on the proposed application;
- Providing for citizen participation when considering any amendments; and
- Allowing for citizen participation in the planning and assessment of the community development program.
- It has developed program activities so as to primarily benefit targeted income person and households and each activity in the program meet a national objective: benefit to low-and moderate-income persons. It further understands that all units funded by CDBG-DR funding through the WHFO Program must be sold to eligible households at or below 80% AMI.
- It will cooperate with the State in its status as the responsible Federal entity under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) and other provisions of Federal law, as specified in 24 CFR Part 58, and confirms that no choice-limiting actions as defined in 24 CFR 58.22 (including, but not limited to, acquisition, demolition, disposition, construction, rehabilitation, repair, new construction, site preparation) have occurred or will occur prior to HUD’s issuance of the Authority to Use Grant Funds (AUGF).
- It will not carry out any of the activities under this agreement in a manner that results in a prohibited duplication of benefits as defined by HUD and Section 312 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 USC 5155) and further understands that it must repay any assistance later received for the same purpose as those awarded.
- It will comply with the regulations, policies, guidelines, and requirements of 2 CFR Part 200 and 24 CFR Part 85, as modified by 24 CFR 570, Subpart J, as they relate to the application, acceptance, and use of Federal funds under this document.
- It will comply with all requirements imposed by the State concerning special requirements of law, program requirements, and other administrative requirements.
- It will follow all applicable federal procurement policies per 24 CFR §200.317 et seq. It will comply with all applicable Federal and State labor standards and requirements, including but not limited to:
- Section 110 of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended, 24 CFR 570.603;
- Davis-Bacon and Related Acts (40 U.S.C. 276(a) and 46 U.S.C. 2786a) with respect to prevailing wage rates (except where exempted under the law);
- The Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act of 1962, as amended (40 U.S.C. 3702 et seq.), requiring that mechanics and laborers (including watchmen and guards) employed on federally assisted contracts be paid wages of not less than one and one-half times their basis wage rates for all hours worked in excess of eight in a calendar day or forty in a work-week, whichever is greater;
- The Federal Fair Labor Standards Act (29 U.S.C. Sec. 201 et seq.) requiring that covered employees be paid at least the minimum prescribed wage, and also that they be paid one and one-half times their basic wage rate for all hours worked in excess of the prescribed work-week; and
- The Drug-Free Workplace Act (41 U.S.C. Sec. 8103 et seq.).
- It will comply with all applicable Federal and State nondiscrimination standards and requirements, including but not limited to:
- Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Pub. Law 88-352), and the regulations issued pursuant thereto (24 CFR Part 1), which provides that no person in the United States shall on the grounds of race, color, or national origin, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination under any program or activity for which the applicant receives Federal financial assistance;
- Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968 (Pub. Law 90-284), as amended, administering all programs and activities relating to housing and community development in a manner to affirmatively further fair housing;
- Section 109 of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended, and the regulations issued pursuant thereto (24 CFR 570.602), which provides that no person in the United States shall, on the grounds of race, color, religion, national origin, or sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity funded in whole or in part with funds provided under the act;
- Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended;
- Titles I through V of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990;
- The Age Discrimination Act of 1975 (Public Law 94-135);
- All applicable Executive Orders related to equal opportunity in housing and nondiscrimination; and
- Policies required by the State to affirmatively further fair housing.
- It will comply with Section 3 of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968, as amended, which provides that, to the greatest extent feasible, opportunities for training and employment shall be given to recipients of public housing and lower-income residents of the unit of local government or the metropolitan area (or non-metropolitan county) in which the project is located.
- It will, to the greatest practical extent under State law, comply with the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970 and will comply with Section 104(d) and HUD implementing regulations at 49 CFR Part 24; and inform affected persons of their rights and of the acquisition policies and procedures set forth in the regulations at 49 CFR Part 24 and 24 CFR 570.488. The URA applies to any person who moves from the real property or moves their personal property from the real property as a direct result of an acquisition, rehabilitation, or demolition for the proposed project. Applicants must provide documentation of occupancy for all current tenants and prior tenants from the last 90 days at the proposed site, as well as any documentation relating to the acquisition, relocation, or demolition activity, if applicable.
- It will minimize displacement of persons as a result of activities assisted with federal assistance and comply with Title II of the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970, as amended (42 U.S.C. 4601 et seq.), and HUD implementing regulations at 49 CFR Part 24 and 24 CFR 570.488, which includes, but is not limited to, providing relocation payments and assistance to all persons displaced as a result of acquisition of real property for an activity assisted under the CDBG-DR program.
- It will comply with the State's conflict-of-interest policy and provisions specified in the CDBG-DR Administrative Manual, the State’s CDBG-DR program, and 24 CFR § 570.611, including identifying and disclosing in writing any potential conflict of interest to HUD and DCR, complying with any conditions or restrictions imposed by HUD or DCR, and also doing so whenever there has been a change of circumstances that gives rise to a conflict.
- It will comply with the State’s Personally Identifiable Information (PII) Policy and 2 CFR § 200.303 and take reasonable measures to safeguard protected personally identifiable information, as defined in 2 CFR § 200.1, and any other information that HUD or the State designates as sensitive.
- It will comply with the Anti-Kickback Provision of the Copeland Act of 1934, as amended (18 U.S.C. 874, 40 U.S.C. 276(a), and 41 U.S.C. § 51-58), which outlaws and prescribes penalties for “kickbacks” of wages in federally financed or assisted construction activities.
- It will comply with the provisions of the Hatch Act (5 U.S.C. §1501, et seq.), which limits the political activity of employees and will:
- Certify and agree that no federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid, by or on behalf of it, to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress in connection with the awarding of any federal contract, the making of any federal grant, the making of any federal loan, the entering into of any cooperative agreement, and the extension, continuation, renewal, amendment, or modification of any federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement.
- If any funds other than federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, or a Member of Congress in connection with the federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement, it will complete and submit Standard Form-LLL, “Disclosure Form to Report Lobbying,” in accordance with its instructions.
- It will give the State, HUD, and the Comptroller General, through any authorized representatives, access to and the right to examine all records, books, papers, or documents relating to the grant and CDB G-DR project or activity.
- It will comply with the Single Audit Act of 1984, as amended, and any applicable requirements set forth in 2 CFR Part 200, or certifies that it is exempt from these requirements;
- It will comply with the flood insurance purchase requirement of the Section 102(a) of the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973 (Pub. Law 93-234), as a condition for the receipt of any Federal financial assistance for construction or acquisition purposes for use in any area that has been identified by the Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development as an area having special flood hazards.
- It will, in connection with any environmental assessment under the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (54 U.S.C. 300101 et seq.) and the Preservation of Archeological and Historical Preservation Act of 1974 (16 U.S.C. 469, et seq.), as amended, consult with the State Historical Preservation Officer to identify properties listed in or eligible for inclusion in the national register of Historic Places that are subject to adverse effects (see 36 CFR Part 800.8) by any proposed activity; and comply with all requirements established by the State to avoid or mitigate adverse effects upon such properties.
- It will comply with all applicable Federal and State environmental standards and requirements, including but not limited to:
- The National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. sec. 4321 et seq.) and 24 CFR Part 58;
- The Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended, (16 U.S.C. Sec. 1531 et seq.);
- The Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act of 1958, as amended (16 U.S.C. Sec. 661 et seq.);
- The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1968, as amended (16 U.S.C. Sec. 1271);
- The Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974, as amended, (42 U.S.C. Sec. 30(f) et seq.);
- Section 401 (f) of the Lead-Based Paint Poisoning Prevention Act, as amended (42 U.S.C.S. 4831(b)), Lead-Based Paint Regulations (24 CFR Part 35), and Title X of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1992;
- The Clean Air Act of 1970, as amended (42 U.S.C.S. 7401 et seq.);
- The Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1972, as amended, (33 U.S.C.S. 1251 et seq.);
- The Clean Water Act of 1977 (Public Law 95-217); and
- The Solid Waste Disposal Act, as amended by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976 (42 U.S.C. Sec. 6901 et seq.).
- Neither it nor its staff are presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from participation in federal assistance programs, in any proposal submitted in connection with the CDBG-DR program, per the Excluded Party List System located at https://www.sam.gov/SAM/. In addition, it certifies that it will not award contracts to or otherwise engage the services of any contractor while that contractor (or its principals) is debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from participation in the covered transaction, in any proposal submitted in connection with the CDBG-DR program under the provisions of 24 CFR Part 24.
- It will comply with all parts of Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended, which have not been cited previously, as well as with all other applicable laws.
- It will not attempt to recover any capital costs of public improvements assisted in whole or in part with CDBG-DR funds by assessing any amount against properties owned and occupied by persons of low- and moderate-income, including any fee charged or assessment made as a condition of obtaining access to such public improvements, unless:
- CDBG-DR funds received are used to pay the proportion of such fee or assessment that relates to the capital costs of public improvements that are financed from revenue sources other than CDBG-DR funds; or
- For purposes of assisting any amount against properties owned and occupied by persons of low- and moderate-income who are not persons of very low income, that it lacks sufficient funds received from the CDBG-DR Program to comply with the requirements of this clause.
-
12
Application Submit
The Application Submit section is the final step to review, certify, and submit the completed application.
Review Completion Status
Before submitting, confirm that all application sections display a green check mark in the left-hand navigation menu.
- A green check mark indicates the section is complete.
- A gray or missing check mark indicates required information or documents are still missing in that section.
If the Submit button is inactive or unavailable, review each section to locate and complete any missing fields or uploads.
Participants may select any section in the left-hand menu to review or update information prior to submission.
Certification and Electronic Signature
To proceed with submission:
- Select the checkbox to certify that the information provided in the application is true and complete to the best of the signer’s knowledge.
- Under Authorized Signature, select "Click here to electronically sign."
- Enter the signer's full name as prompted.
- Select "Sign" to apply the electronic signature.
Once the signature is successfully completed, the signer's name is displayed under Authorized Signature.
A confirmation message appears indicating the email address of the signer and the date and time the prescreen was electronically signed.
Submit the Application
- Select "Application Submit."
- A confirmation window will appear with a message explaining that once the application is submitted, no additional edits can be made unless the application is re-opened by a Program Administrator.
- Participants must choose one of the following options:
- Cancel – Returns you to the Submit page without submitting. The application remains editable.
- Proceed – Confirms submission and formally submits the completed prescreen.
After selecting "Proceed" on the submission confirmation window, the system displays the Application Submitted screen.
-
13
After Application Submission
After you submit your application, you can:
- Review your submitted application by selecting any section in the left-hand navigation menu.
- Use Print Application to download or print a copy for your records.
- Select "Print Application" from the left-hand panel.
- This will generate a printable version of your submitted application, downloaded to your browser.
Please note:
- Submitted applications are read-only and cannot be edited.
- No additional action is required from the applicant unless contacted by the program.