Homebuyer Direct Program

Q: ⇒ How do I purchase a home from the Cook County Land Bank Authority (CCLBA)?

Available properties may be viewed on our website (www.cookcountylandbank.org) by navigating to our Interactive Property Viewer.  Click “Homebuyer Direct” at the top of the page. If you are interested in a property and wish to inspect, click “Apply”. You will be asked to create an account, and then complete a short application.  CCLBA will make arrangements for you to inspect the property. If you are working with a Real Estate Broker, then the Real Estate Broker will meet you at the property to inspect.  If you wish to put in an offer, go back to the property address on the website and click “Offer” and complete the questions. CCLBA will contact you to let you know the status of your offer.

Q: ⇒ Do I need to be pre-approved by a lender?

If you are financing the purchase then yes, your offer should be accompanied by a pre-approval letter from your lender. If you are paying cash, please provide proof of funds.

Q: ⇒ May I offer less than the minimum price?

 Yes, you may offer less than the minimum.

Q: ⇒ Are there income restrictions under your program?

The Land Bank does not impose any income restrictions on buyers.

Q: ⇒ What are your down payment requirements?

The Land Bank requires a non-refundable $1,000 application fee, which is applied as a credit at closing. Funds must be in the form of a certified check made out to the Cook County Land Bank Authority.

Q: ⇒ Will my earnest money deposit be returned if I am denied mortgage financing?

Funds will be returned by providing a copy of the Lender’s Notice of Denial. However, if the loan is being denied due to a misrepresentation of income, assets, and debt disclosed for the pre-approval then funds will not be returned.

Q: ⇒ May I work with my Real Estate Broker?

Yes, your Real Estate Broker is welcome and will earn a commission rate of 2%.

Q: ⇒ How does the CCLBA make a decision when there are multiple offers for the same property?

The Land Bank will look at occupancy, contract contingencies, down payment, and first time homebuyers.

Q: ⇒ What if the home does not appraise for the offer amount?

The Land Bank prices the home below the market value using comparable sales information from the Multiple Listing Service. In the unlikely event that the home appraises for less than the offer price, the Land Bank will review the appraisal and consider an adjustment to the purchase price if warranted.

Q: ⇒ How long do I have to get loan approval? How long do I have to close?

Typically, the lender issues a loan commitment within 30-45 days and closes shortly thereafter. Please check with your lender. CCLBA will grant contract extensions if warranted.

Q: ⇒ What is the repaired value of the home?

Your Real Estate Broker will provide a value of the property after rehab. Further, the lender will complete an “as completed value” appraisal.

Q: ⇒ Are there any down payment assistance programs I can use?

Yes, check with the following for down payment assistance programs:

• Your lender may offer assistance;
• City of Chicago;
• Neighborhood Housing Services;
• Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA); and
• Your Real Estate Broker

Q: ⇒ How quickly may I close?

Depending upon the source of funds, cash buyers typically are ready to close within 30 days. If you are working with a lender, a lender’s average closing time is 45-60 days. Please check with your lender.

Q: ⇒ If I change my mind can I get my money back?

 The $1,000 application fee is non-refundable, unless the buyer’s financing is declined.

Q: ⇒ Do I need an Attorney?

Buyers are encouraged to seek representation.  CCLBA and its attorney cannot provide legal advice to the buyer.

Q: ⇒ Do I need to attend a homebuyer education class?

Buyers are highly encouraged to attend a homebuyer class. Some lenders or entities offering down payment assistance will require homebuyer education.  Please check with your lender or with the entity offering down payment assistance.

Q: ⇒ Does the Land Bank CCLBA lend money?

The Land Bank does not lend money. Buyers seeking financing may select any lender they so choose.

Q: ⇒ Are there any lenders associated with this program?

Yes. Please see a list of our Lending Partners under the Homebuyer Direct Tab.

Q: ⇒ What are my options for paying for the home?

Homes may be purchased via Cash or Financing.

Q: ⇒ Do you offer rent to own?

No, CCLBA does not offer rent to own.

Q: ⇒ What type of loan is acceptable for the purchase of the home?

Purchase/Rehab loan would be the most appropriate type of loan for this program. However, buyers will work with their lenders to determine the best loan product/terms for their financial situation.

Q: ⇒ Will the CCLBA conduct repairs requested by my lender?

The CCLBA will turn on utilities (water, gas, electric) if requested by lender; however the properties are being sold “As Is”. Buyers should pursue a Purchase-Rehab loan such as a 203K to purchase the property and complete repairs and updates.

Q: ⇒ Is there an expectation for the level / quality or cost of rehab completed?

The only expectation is that rehab complies with all local, county, and state building codes and ordinances.

Q: ⇒ Do you help qualify contractors?

CCLBA will confirm that the Contractor is in, “Good Standing” with the State of Illinois, and property licensed and bonded to do business in the respective municipality.

Q: ⇒ May we live in the home while we’re in the process of rehabbing?

Occupancy prior to the completion of rehab depends on safety, soundness, and structural integrity.  Many cities and Villages require a “Certificate of Occupancy” prior to living in the home. Buyers are encouraged to reach out to the local municipality and inquire about occupancy requirements.

Q: ⇒ Do you provide an inspection report?

Yes, the Land Bank will provide a preliminary home inspection report; however, this report is for informational purposes only. The inspector may not be held liable for items missed. Inspections are the responsibility of the buyer.

Q: ⇒ Will I be allowed to hire my own inspector(s)?

Yes, buyers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own inspection (s) so that you may determine the condition of the property and level of rehab needed.  Homes sold by CCLBA are sold “As-Is, With Any and All Faults”.

Q: ⇒ Does my inspection need to be completed before or after going under contract?

We strongly encourage buyers to complete inspections prior to making an offer. Further, the buyer will have time to complete inspections within the time period noted in the purchase and sales agreement.