Many city and county governments offer Mortgage Credit Certificate programs.
Requirements vary from program to program.
People wanting to apply should contact their local housing or community development office. There are maximum income limits, which vary by locality and family size. You must be a first time home-buyer, defined as not having held an ownership interest in a principal residence during the past three years. This restriction may be waived, however, if you are buying property within certain target areas. Allocation must be available.