Smoky Mountain Housing Partnership (SMHP)
The Smoky Mountain Housing Partnership (SMHP), a program of Mountain Projects, continues to expand affordable housing opportunities across Western North Carolina—helping families achieve stability, independence, and homeownership.
Smoky Mountain Housing Partnership (SMHP), the affordable housing division of Mountain Projects, expands the organization’s long-standing commitment to helping homeowners by developing affordable housing and providing homebuyer services and counseling for essential workers in Haywood and Jackson counties.
As housing costs continue to rise in Western North Carolina, SMHP is committed to creating safe, affordable homes through the construction of micro-homes and family housing across the region.
Homeownership is possible—even for families with modest incomes. Through the Self-Help Housing program, qualifying families work together to build their own homes, lowering costs and strengthening community in the process. 100% financing with no down payment is available for eligible participants.
Smoky Mountain Housing Partnership (SMHP) Attainable Housing Program Application Status (July, 2026)
The Smoky Mountain Housing Partnership is not accepting new applications for its Attainable Housing Programs at this time. Rising construction, infrastructure, financing, and regulatory costs continue to make it challenging to develop affordable homes for low-income individuals and families. Our current projects are in various stages of planning, environmental review, infrastructure development, or construction, and no homes are currently available for purchase. As a result, we are not accepting applications or maintaining an active buyer selection process. Individuals who have already completed the qualification process will continue to receive updates as any major milestones are reached.
Project Statuses
Harkins Avenue (Between Clyde and Canton)
The Harkins Avenue project is planned as an attainable homeownership development, with infrastructure funding provided through HUD Disaster Recovery and North Carolina Office of Recovery and Resiliency (NCORR) programs. Since the project was initiated, rising construction, infrastructure, and financing costs, along with additional site development requirements, have increased overall costs. At the same time, public funding programs limit home sale prices to ensure affordability for income-qualified buyers. Smoky Mountain Housing Partnership and its partners are evaluating the best path forward to meet community housing needs while maintaining long-term affordability and financial sustainability.
Bethel Village (Jonathan Valley)
The Bethel Village development, which includes Self-Help Housing and attainable homeownership opportunities, continues to move forward. However, Smoky Mountain Housing Partnership is not accepting new applications for this project at this time. should additional opportunities become available, it will be announced through our website and other communication channels.
Second Avenue (Sylva)
The Second Avenue project in Sylva has been completed, and all homes are occupied.
Webster Village (Jackson County)
The Webster Village project is progressing through environmental review and site preparation activities. Located on Little Savannah Road near Webster, the development is a partnership among Mountain Projects, Givens Communities, Western Carolina University, and Jackson County. The project is intended to increase housing opportunities in Jackson County through a mix of housing options designed to serve low-income seniors, professional households, and first-time homebuyers. The project remains in the planning and pre-development phase and has not yet reached the application stage. Additional information will be shared as development milestones are completed.
Looking Ahead
Our mission remains unchanged: to provide safe, quality, and attainable housing for individuals, working families, and seniors in Haywood and Jackson counties.
Project timelines depend on environmental reviews, funding, infrastructure, regulatory approvals, and market conditions, so future application dates are not yet available. Smoky Mountain Housing Partnership does not maintain a waiting list for homeownership opportunities. When applications open, announcements will be made on our website, social media, and through partner organizations. Thank you for your patience as we navigate the challenges of affordable housing development.
Project updates and future application opportunities will be shared through our website and other communication channels as they become available. For questions, please contact Smoky Mountain Housing Partnership at [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions
Are applications currently open?
No. Smoky Mountain Housing Partnership is not accepting applications for affordable homeownership opportunities at this time.
Why are applications closed?
Our current projects are in various stages of planning, environmental review, infrastructure development, funding review, or construction. Because developments are still in the planning stages, we are not accepting applications at this time.
When will applications reopen?
Future application dates have not been determined. Project timelines depend on environmental reviews, funding availability, infrastructure requirements, regulatory approvals, and market conditions.
Is there a waiting list?
No. Smoky Mountain Housing Partnership is not maintaining a waiting list for future homeownership opportunities.
How will I know when applications become available?
Announcements will be posted on the Mountain Projects website, social media channels, and through community partners. We encourage interested individuals and families to monitor these communication channels for updates.
Can I apply for a specific project now?
No. None of our current affordable housing developments are accepting applications at this time.
Will the Harkins Avenue project move forward?
Smoky Mountain Housing Partnership and its partners continue to evaluate development options for the Harkins Avenue property. Project planning is ongoing, and updates will be shared as significant milestones are reached.
Will the Harkins Avenue project still be homeownership housing?
Development planning is ongoing. Housing types, project design, funding sources, and timelines may be adjusted as we evaluate the best ways to meet community housing needs while maintaining long-term affordability and financial sustainability.
Can I reserve a home in a future development?
No. Homes cannot be reserved before an official application process is announced.
What income level is required to qualify?
Income requirements vary by project and funding source. Eligibility criteria will be announced when applications become available.
Are rental housing opportunities available through these developments?
No. However, Mountain Projects administers the Section 8 Housing program. To learn more about Section 8 Housing Vouchers, visit this link: https://mountainprojects.org/section-8.
What if I have already started the qualification process? What happens to my application materials?
If you have completed the qualification process with Smoky Mountain Housing Partnership, we will continue to provide updates as significant project milestones are reached. Please note that eligibility determinations are tied to specific projects and funding sources, and previously submitted income, credit, and household information may need to be updated or resubmitted when future application opportunities become available.
If you submitted materials but did not complete the qualification process, you may be asked to begin a new application when future opportunities are announced.
As always, we encourage all clients to take advantage of our Housing Resources Guide at https://smokymountainhousing.org/ and to make every effort to seek additional opportunities and resources.
Why do affordable housing projects take so long?
Attainable housing developments require environmental reviews, extensive infrastructure planning, financing approvals, regulatory compliance, and coordination among multiple funding partners. And then, utilizing grant funding for affordable housing projects requires that we work within the funders’ additional requirements. Each of these steps helps ensure that housing is safe, financially sustainable, and affordable for future residents.
Who can I contact with questions?
Please contact Smoky Mountain Housing Partnership at [email protected]
Homeownership Support Guide
To discuss these resources or other homeownership programs, contact SMHP staff
WNC Repair Readiness
Overview
The program covers pre-weatherization repairs such as roof, wall ceiling, floor, plumbing, and/or electrical repairs needed for effective weatherization; remediation of moisture intrusion; implementing LED lighting; etc.
Eligibility
Location: Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Cleveland, Haywood, Henderson, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania, Watauga, Yancey.
Income: 120% or below of area median household income Haywood 80% AMI – up to $25,000 100% AMI – up to $15,000 120% AMI – up to $10,000.
Homeowners only
Funding Deadline
May 15, 2027
Contact Info
LeNay Shular, Southwestern Commission
[email protected]
(828) 339-2218
Energy Savers NC (HOMES & HEAR)
Overview
Covers cost of energy efficient and electrification upgrades, such as heat pumps, electrical panels, and insulation.
Two “pathways”: Homeowners Managing Efficiency Savings (HOMES) & Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEAR).
HOMES: Offers eligible households up to $16,000 for home efficiency upgrades.
HEAR: Provides up to $14,000 for high-efficiency electrical appliances.
Eligibility
Location: All Western NC counties.
Income: Household income less than 150% of AMI.
Homeowners AND renters
Funding Deadline
2031 (or until funds are depleted)
Contact Info
NC Department of Environmental Quality
[email protected]
(866) 998-8555
Energy Savers Network
Overview
This program serves income-qualified Duke Energy clients with free energy-efficient upgrades, including weatherization, HVAC heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, and insulation – Also includes home repairs.
Only for energy efficiency.
Eligibility
Location: Buncombe, Henderson, Madison, Haywood.
Income: Gross income must be at or below 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines Homeowners AND renters.
Must be Duke Energy customer.
Funding Deadline: Ongoing
Contact Info
[email protected]
(828) 585-4492
Apply online:
https://energysaver snetwork.org/energy-efficiency-upgrade-services/Haywood County
Local Contact: Environmental Action Community: [email protected]
Clean Energy Fund of the Carolinas Carolina SURE
(Smart Upgrades for Residential Efficiency)
(Smart Upgrades for Residential Efficiency)
Overview
This program supports projects that include electrification upgrades, including upgrades to heating and cooling systems, solar & battery storage, home envelope, infrastructure (septic/sewer), etc. Anyone can apply, but there are discounts for veterans, seniors, and households with limited income.
Eligibility
Location: NC
Income: No income limits. Must be able to provide proof of income. Homeowners only.
Other: Property taxes must be current.
Credit instruments must be current.
No bankruptcies discharged within the last 2 years.
Funding Deadline
N/A
Contact Info
[email protected]
Self-Help Credit Union Energy Saver Loans
Overview
Finance green home improvements, including HVAC, heat pumps, insulation, weatherization, Energy Star appliances, etc. Also include measures to make home healthier and safer like lead abatement and mold remediation. Loan amounts from $2,500 to $50,000. Terms from 5-15 years
Eligibility
Location: NC
Funding Deadline: N/A
Contact Info: (800) 966-7353
Duke Customer Assistance Program
Overview
The program provides qualifying customers a flat monthly credit of up to $42 for up to 12 billing cycles.
Maximum grant award is $32,420.
Eligibility:
To receive the CAP credit, you must first be approved for the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program OR the Crisis Intervention Program for your Duke Energy electric bills.
Location: NC
Income: Based on LIEAP or CIP income requirements. (130% or below of FPL, special cases up to 150% of FPL) Homeowners AND renters (just have to be a Duke customer).
Funding Deadline: N/A
Contact Info: Contact Mountain Projects Weatherization Program or your local Department of Social Services (DSS) to complete the LIHEAP/CIP application process.
USDA Disaster Repair Grant
Overview
Provides grants very-low and low-income homeowners to repair owner-occupied homes damaged in specific Presidentially Declared Disasters.
Eligibility:
Location: Property must have been damaged in a Presidentially Declared Disaster area since 2022.
Property must be located in an eligible rural area.
Income: Have an adjusted income within very low- and low-income limits.
Homeowners only
Funding Deadline: Applications are available year-round as long as funding is available.
Contact Info: Contact a USDA home loan specialist in your area to get started.
www.rd.usda.gov/browse-state
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)
Overview
This program helps income-eligible NC households with weatherization services that reduce utility bills, which includes services such as repairing HVACs, installing attic/wall/floor installation, testing for gas leaks, etc.
Eligibility:
Location: NC
Income: Household Income below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines, OR households receiving cash assistance payments under Work First or Supplemental Security Income are eligible.
If households qualify for HUD means-tested programs such as HOME and CDBG, they are eligible.
Homeowners AND renters
Funding Deadline: Program funded through 2029
Contact Info:To begin an application, contact Mountain Projects Weatherization department, or find your provider.
NC DEQ
[email protected]
NC Residential Solar Lease
Overview
If you sign a contract to lease solar for your home, the company leasing you the equipment will install it, do the paperwork, and maintain the system. At the end of the lease period, you can renew the lease, buy the system, or return the system. Find a lease through the list of approved lessors.
Only 2 companies are currently offering residential leases in NC (EnerWealth and Palmetto LightReach).
Eligibility:
Location: NC
Income: No income requirements.
Homeowners AND renters (renters have to have landlord approval).
Funding Deadline: Ongoing. Homeowner tax credited ended in 2025, but the company installing the solar system can still claim the tax credit, therefore reducing upfront costs for homeowner.
Contact Info:
Sally Roberston, Energy Funds For All
[email protected]
Tariffed On-Bill Energy Efficiency Program
(Duke Energy’s Improve & Save Program)
(Duke Energy’s Improve & Save Program)
Overview
Individual can sign up to install various energy efficiency improvements in the home, pay for them overtime through a surcharge on your electric bill. Need an energy audit to begin process, then your utility will work with partners to complete the work.
Program covers HVAC equipment and duct sealing, attic insulation and air sealing, and heat pumps.
Eligibility: Location: Any Duke Energy customer in NC who is on an individually-metered residential account.
Homeowners AND renters.
Funding Deadline: Ongoing.
Contact Info:
Sally Roberston, Energy Funds For All
[email protected]
Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta
Affordable Housing Programs
Affordable Housing Programs
Overview
The Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta (FHLBank Atlanta) works through participating banks and credit unions to make homeownership more affordable.
Programs May Include
- Down payment assistance
- Closing cost assistance
- Affordable mortgage financing
- Workforce housing initiatives
- Homeownership grants through participating lenders
Note: Assistance is provided through participating financial institutions—not directly to homebuyers
Eligibility: N/A
(Ask your lender whether they participate in FHLBank Atlanta’s Affordable Housing Program (AHP) or homeownership assistance programs.)
Funding Deadline: N/A
Contact Info:
Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta
1475 Peachtree St. NE
Atlanta, GA 30309
800-536-9650
www.fhlbatl.com
Self-Help Credit Union
Overview
Self-Help Credit Union specializes in helping first-time and moderate-income families purchase homes.
Services
- First-time homebuyer mortgages
- Affordable mortgage products
- Credit counseling
- Financial coaching
- Homebuyer education
- Down payment assistance (when available)
- USDA and other government-backed mortgage products
Self-Help has extensive experience serving rural communities throughout North Carolina.
Eligibility: N/A
Funding Deadline: N/A
Contact Info:
Self-Help Credit Union
800-966-7353
www.self-help.org
Find a local branch: www.self-help.org/locations
NC Home Advantage Mortgage
North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA)
North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA)
Overview
The NC Home Advantage Mortgage provides affordable fixed-rate mortgages through participating lenders across North Carolina.
Benefits:
- Fixed-rate mortgage
- Down payment assistance up to 3% of the loan amount
- Available for first-time and repeat homebuyers
- FHA, USDA, VA and Conventional loan options
- Income up to $158,000 may qualify (subject to program guidelines)
Eligibility: N/A
Funding Deadline: N/A
Contact Info:
North Carolina Housing Finance Agency
3508 Bush Street
Raleigh, NC 27609
919-877-5700
www.nchomeadvantage.com
www.nchfa.com
NC 1st Home Advantage Down Payment
North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA)
North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA)
Overview
For eligible first-time homebuyers and military veterans.
Benefits
- $15,000 down payment assistance
- 0% interest
- Deferred repayment
- Forgiven over years 11–15 if the home remains your primary residence
- Used with an NC Home Advantage Mortgage
Eligibility: N/A
Funding Deadline: N/A
Contact Info:
North Carolina Housing Finance Agency
919-877-5700
www.nchomeadvantage.com
Community Partners Loan Pool (CPLP)
Down Payment Assistance
Down Payment Assistance
The Community Partners Loan Pool (CPLP) is one of North Carolina’s most generous homebuyer assistance programs.
Benefits
- Up to 25% of the home’s purchase price
- Maximum assistance of $50,000
- Zero-interest subordinate loan
- Can be paired with:
- NC Home Advantage Mortgage
- USDA Section 502 Direct Loan
- Designed for lower- and moderate-income homebuyers
Availability depends on local participating organizations and funding.
Eligibility: N/A
Funding Deadline: N/A
Contact Info:
North Carolina Housing Finance Agency
919-877-5700
www.nchfa.com
Haywood County Homeownership Assistance Program
Overview
Haywood County administers a Homeownership Assistance Program funded through Community Development Block Grant–Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR).
Assistance May Include
- Down payment assistance
- Closing cost assistance
- Help for first-time homebuyers
- Assistance for residents displaced by Tropical Storm Fred
- Homebuyer education
- Housing counseling
Eligibility is generally available to households earning up to 120% of Area Median Income, subject to current program guidelines and available funding.
Eligibility
N/A
Funding Deadline
N/A
Contact Info
Haywood County Housing Programs
Hannah White
828-356-2638
www.haywoodcountync.gov/880/Housing-Programs
“As many are aware, home ownership is becoming increasingly more challenging in WNC. Fortunately, the self-help program and the participants’ sweat equity make the dream more obtainable. This is a wonderful opportunity for our community, and being able to assist our clients on their path to homeownership is truly amazing.”
2025 in Review
Five Section 8 Voucher holders transitioned successfully from rental assistance to homeownership.
Three Self-help homes were completed through the USDA 523 Self-Help Housing Program, marking the first use of modular homes in the nation under this program.
Three additional homeowners have been approved and are preparing to begin construction.
Mountain Projects received a new USDA 523 Self-Help grant to assist 13 more households in building their own homes.
We were invited to speak at the 2025 National Rural Housing Conference in Washington, DC
Program Locations
Smoky Mountain Housing Partnership serves Haywood and Jackson Counties, operating from our main office in Waynesville.
SMHP Forges a Path to More Affordable Housing
Mountain Projects’ Smoky Mountain Housing Partnership has championed the cause of more affordable housing since 2018
SMHP program established with $300,000 donor investment
November, 2018
Waynesville
Battle of Badges fundraising event, a football game between police and firefighters
August, 2019
Haywood County
Groundbreaking at Bethel Village in Jonathan Creek
August, 2020
Haywood County
We receive a grant award from the Canopy Foundation
September 2020
North Carolina
“Mountain Projects has become the bridge between recovery and resilience—turning crisis response into long-term community rebuilding.”
We hired our first staff person
December, 2020
Waynesville
We become a HUD Approved Housing Counseling Agency
April, 2021
Haywood County
We receive a grant from the Dogwood Health Trust
May, 2021
Haywood County
HOME Consortium Established
July, 2021
North Carolina
“We step up when the community needs our agency. That was the only choice we had … our staff are the types who are willing to go above and beyond.”
Harkins Ave. property purchased in Clyde
September, 2021
Clyde
Revolving Development Fund established
April, 2021
Haywood County
Community Foundation of WNC grant provides a worksite trailer
2021
Haywood County
Large parcel in Fines Creek/Dream Valley donated to SMHP
July, 2021
Fines Creek
“In November 2023, Mountain Projects became the first self-help housing grantee in the country to successfully integrate modular homes into the USDA Section 523 program.”
Harris Estates, Sylva Groundbreaking
June, 2022
Sylva
Fines Creek/Dream Valley parcel is sold
2022
Haywood County
HOME grant and a second Canopy grant awarded
2023
Haywood County
Harris Estates in Sylva complete and its homes occupied by Self-Help program participants
2024
Sylva