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Affordable Housing in Philadelphia: First-Time Homebuyer Programs You’ll Need to Know to Buy In 2025

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 07:24:57 GMT

Opportunities for Philadelphia First-Time Homebuyers in 2025

Home prices, limited inventory, and rising rents have made it difficult for first time buyers in Philadelphia. In partnership with the City of Philadelphia, Civetta Property Group is leading efforts to expand access to affordable homeownership in Philadelphia PA through first-time homebuyer programs designed to make buying more attainable in 2025.

Buying your first home in Philly isn’t easy right now. Between high prices, not enough homes, and rising rents, many hopeful buyers are feeling stuck. That’s why Civetta Property Group , in partnership with the City of Philadelphia, is working to change the game. Through powerful first-time homebuyer programs like the Turn the Key program, we’re helping more people find their path to affordable homeownership in 2025—because everyone deserves a place to call home. Below, you can explore Turn the Key and other affordable housing programs you’ll need to know to make

Turn the Key Program

Turn the Key is making a real difference in Philadelphia by giving eligible first time buyers up to seventy five thousand dollars to help with down payments and closing costs on brand new, move-in ready homes.

Who it’s for: Working individuals and families who earn about 57 percent of the Area Median Income, which is around forty five thousand dollars a year on average. People with higher incomes, up to around eighty thousand dollars for single buyers, might qualify too.
Home quality: These are modern energy efficient new homes that often cost less each month than renting. The average mortgage payment is around one thousand three hundred fifty dollars, compared to an average rent of one thousand seven hundred twenty five dollars.
Support included: Buyers receive free housing counseling that usually takes about eight hours. The program accepts flexible credit scores, including those as low as 620 to 640.

Civetta Property Group has helped over one hundred buyers close on Turn the Key homes, with 135 completed, 110 sold, and 75 currently in development.

Philly First Home

Philly First Home is a great option for buyers who do not qualify for the Turn the Key program or want to purchase a home on the open market.

Benefit: Up to $10,000 or six percent of the purchase price for down payment and closing costs.
Additional information: Free housing counseling helps ensure buyers are mortgage ready and confident about the home buying process. This program can be combined with Turn the Key, giving buyers access to as much as eighty five thousand dollars in total assistance

First Front Door Program

This program is offered through partner banks like PFCU .

Benefit: Up to $15,000 to $20,000 for down payment or closing costs.
Ideal for: Buyers who have some savings and need a final boost to reach their homeownership goal

Looking Ahead: The H.O.M.E. Plan

Mayor Parker’s Housing Opportunities Made Easy (H.O.M.E.) plan is a two billion dollar initiative to create and preserve housing across Philadelphia.

Key goals include:

$800 million in new city housing bonds
13,500 affordable units to be built
16,500 homes to be preserved or repaired
New loan options and home repair services for existing homeowners

The H.O.M.E. plan supports programs like Turn the Key and Philly First Home. This initiative provides immediate help while also building long term solutions for housing affordability.

What is a Grants vs a Loan?

Before taking a closer look at your options, it is helpful to understand the difference between grants and loans, and what kinds of programs are available in Philadelphia.

Grants and loans are two common types of financial help for first-time homebuyers. Grants do not need to be repaid as long as you meet the program’s terms and can be used for down payments, closing costs, or reducing your mortgage. Loans must be repaid, usually with interest. Some programs offer low interest or forgivable options, like Turn the Key, which provides a second loan that is forgiven after twenty years if all requirements are met. However, early move out or sale may require repayment.

Homebuying Grants in Philadelphia You Should Know

Philly First Home Grant

Amount: Up to $10,000 or six percent of the home’s purchase price
Use: Down payment, closing costs, or reducing your mortgage
Who qualifies: First-time homebuyers or those who have not owned a home in the past three years
Requirements: Must purchase in Philadelphia and complete approved housing counseling

Urban League Grant

Amount: $2,000
Use: Typically used for down payment or closing costs
Who qualifies: First-time buyers within 100% of Area Median Income
Requirement: Must purchase in Philadelphia County

WSFS Neighborhood Opportunity Grant

Amount: Up to $10,000
Who qualifies: Eligibility and grant amount are determined by WSFS Bank based on your financial profile and loan application.

Ocean First Lender Grant

Amount: Up to $10,000
Who qualifies: First-time homebuyers purchasing in Philadelphia County that meet the income requirements and choose OceanFirst bank as their lender.

IDA United Way Match Grant

Amount: Up to $4,000
Use: Down payment and closing costs
Details: A match program that turns $2,000 in personal savings into $6,000 total

PHA Mobility Grant

Amount: Up to $25,000
Who qualifies: PHA residents that meet income eligibility requirements. Preference is given to municipal employees
Requirements: Must be a firsttime buyer or have not owned a home in three years. Must complete Turn the Key counseling

Why First-Time Homebuyer Programs Matter

First-time homebuyer programs like the Turn the Key initiative make homeownership more affordable and sustainable for working Philadelphians. Turn the Key mortgages often cost less than the average cost of rent, the new construction homes are energy efficient, and buyers receive guidance with credit, counseling, and legal support to ensure long term success.

Next Steps with Civetta Property Group

Civetta Property Group has helped hundreds of firsttime buyers access affordable homes across Philadelphia. Ourhomebuyer advocates will walk you through key stages of the homebuying process, including:

Reviewing your eligibility for programs like Turn the Key and Philly First Home
Guiding you through free housing counseling and credit support
Showing you available homes and walking you through the buying process

Start Your Homeownership Journey Today

Affordable homeownership in Philadelphia is within reach for first-time homebuyers, and Civetta Property Group is here to help you get there. From navigating first-time buyer programs to touring move-in ready homes, we will be with you every step of the way. Check to see if you pre-qualify for the Turn the Key program, and start exploring affordable homes in Philadelphia PA today!

Government Housing Assistance Programs Every Philadelphia Buyer Should Know

Thu, 01 May 2025 07:35:02 GMT

Trying to buy a home in Philadelphia right now? You’re not alone—and you’re not imagining things if it feels harder than ever. Between rising costs and limited availability, a lot of people feel stuck, especially those looking for affordable options.

Here’s the good news: there are programs built to help. The City of Philadelphia has been working hard to roll out actionable solutions and help more people access affordable housing in Philadelphia, PA. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or looking for rental support, this guide breaks down the most helpful government housing assistance programs available right now.

The Problem: A Lot of People, Not Enough Affordable Homes

Philadelphia’s housing market is tight—especially if you’re low-income or working-class. The Philadelphia Housing Authority (PHA) manages both public housing opportunities, helping more than 80,000 residents . They manage everything from family public housing units to scattered-site homes across various neighborhoods.

Unfortunately, demand is off the charts. PHA has been so overwhelmed that the waitlist was completely closed for years. When it reopened in 2023, over 36,000 people applied in just two weeks. Right now, around 40,000 people are waiting for help.

The Solution: Government Housing Assistance Programs That Make a Difference

Thankfully, there are other options focused on helping people find affordable housing in Philadelphia. Let’s start with the best option in terms of accessibility right now: the Turn the Key initiative.

Turn the Key Program: Up to $75,000 for First-Time Buyers

If you’re buying for the first time and feel priced out of the market, this is the government housing assistance program you need to know.

Turn the Key is a city-led program that gives up to $75,000 toward the down payment on a new home in Philly. Contrary to popular belief, these aren’t fixer-uppers or low-quality homes. They are “ affordable luxury” : move-in-ready with modern materials and energy-efficient appliances. The only thing missing is the high price tag!

Real Quality Homes

The homes built under Turn the Key are new construction, high quality, and built to modern energy standards. That means lower utility bills and fewer repairs.

There’s often little difference between these homes and the ones you’d find on the regular market—except for the price. That makes this program a total game-changer for first-time buyers in the city.

Easy-To-Meet Requirements

Turn the Key doesn’t just help the lowest-income residents in Philadelphia. You can qualify if you make up to $80,300 as a single person—and more if there are additional working adults in your household.

Turn the Key buyers earn, on average, about $45,000 a year. You also don’t need a perfect credit score. The program accepts credit scores as low as 620-640 , depending on your lender. This is great news if you’ve had bumps in the road financially.

Plenty of Inventory

More than 135 homes have already been built through the Turn the Key program, and over 75 are currently in development. With support from the Philadelphia Land Bank, there’s plenty of space to keep building. More developers are getting involved too, so the supply continues to grow!

Financial Education Comes With It

When you apply, you’ll also go through housing counseling . This may seem like red tape, but it’s actually really helpful! You’ll learn about budgeting, credit repair, and the responsibilities of maintaining a home, setting you up for long-term success as a new homeowner.

Other Government Housing Assistance Programs You Should Know

The Turn the Key program is revolutionary, but it’s not the only program out there. Philadelphia has several others which serve different needs. Here’s a quick breakdown of the top ones.

1. Housing Choice Voucher Program (formerly known as Section 8)

This is the classic Section 8 voucher program , just rebranded, and still going strong. If you qualify, the PHA will cover a portion of your rent in the private market. You find the place; they help pay the bill.

It’s one of the most effective ways to keep families in stable homes, especially in neighborhoods with better schools and public services. The downside? Long wait times due to high demand. Still, it’s worth getting on the list if you’re eligible.

2. Philly First Home

Another great program for first-time buyers, Philly First Home gives you up to $10,000 (or 6% of your home’s price) for your down payment and closing costs. Like Turn the Key, you’ll go through free housing counseling to help you get mortgage-ready. Philly First Home is actually stackable with the Turn the Key initiative, meaning you can access another $10,000 to use along with Turn the Key’s $75,000.

Even if the Turn the Key program isn’t a match for you, Philly First can help you buy a home on the regular market with a little boost.

3. First Front Door Program

Offered through local banks like PFCU, the First Front Door Program gives up to $15,000 or even $20,000 to first-time homebuyers. The money can be used toward your down payment and closing costs.

You’ll work directly with a bank that’s partnered with the program, and they’ll guide you through the process. It’s a solid choice if you already have some savings and just need a little help to close the gap.

4. Community Legal Services (CLS)

Community Legal Services helps low-income tenants dealing with housing issues. If you’re living in public or subsidized housing and facing eviction, unfair rent hikes, issues with accommodating disabilities, or need help with lease questions, they’ve got your back.

They handle cases related to:

Section 8 housing
Rent calculations
Repairs landlords won’t make
PHA grievances
Domestic violence and housing concerns
Lease problems and recertification

It’s a lifesaver if you’re in a tough spot and don’t know what to do. They also provide webinars and self-help resources if you can’t get an appointment right away.

What’s Coming: Mayor Parker’s $2 Billion H.O.M.E. Plan

Change is coming in a big way.

In March 2025, Mayor Cherelle Parker announced a bold new plan: the H.O.M.E. (Housing Opportunities Made Easy) strategy. The plan promises a $2 billion investment to build or preserve 30,000 homes in Philadelphia over the next few years.

Here’s a quick snapshot:

$800 million in new city-issued housing bonds
$1 billion in public land leveraged for housing development
13,500 new affordable housing units planned
16,500 homes set to be preserved or repaired
Programs like ONE Philly Mortgage (low-interest loans) and a Home Services Concierge for repairs and maintenance

It’s still early stages, but this plan shows real commitment from the city to expand access to affordable housing on a massive scale. We’ll be watching closely as it unfolds.

Quick Recap

If you’re a Philadelphia resident trying to find or buy an affordable home, here is your best option:

Turn the Key – Up to $75,000 for first-time homebuyers with reasonable income and credit requirements.

Other good government housing assistance options include:

Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) – Ongoing rental assistance through PHA.
Philly First Home – Grants up to $10,000 for down payments and closing costs.
First Front Door Program – Up to $20,000 from partner banks for first-time buyers.
Community Legal Services (CLS) – Free legal help for tenants in public or subsidized housing.
H.O.M.E. Plan – A massive $2 billion investment to build and preserve 30,000 homes across Philadelphia.

Access Affordable Housing in Philadelphia, PA with Civetta Property Group

Civetta Property Group has helped hundreds of buyers just like you access affordable housing in Philadelphia, PA through the Turn the Key program, accessible loans and grants, and other government housing assistance. Whether you’re just starting your homeownership journey or ready to tour available homes today, we’re here to help.

Contact a homebuyer advocate at Civetta Property Group, check out our available properties , or visit us at a free open house to get started. Your path to homeownership in Philadelphia might be closer than you think!

Turn the Key: The Breakthrough in Affordable Housing in Philadelphia

Thu, 01 May 2025 07:14:45 GMT

Finding high-quality affordable housing in Philadelphia feels almost impossible for many people these days, especially first-time homebuyers. Prices are rising, gentrification is pushing longtime families out of historic neighborhoods, and new construction homes often seem out of the average working Philadelphian’s budget. The Turn the Key program is changing that.

Turn the Key isn’t just another of the many first-time homebuyer programs out there. It’s a true breakthrough for anyone looking for affordable housing in Philadelphia; not just lowest-income residents. This city-led initiative is opening the doors to homeownership for working individuals and families who might have otherwise been priced out of these neighborhoods.

A Unique First-Time Homebuyer Program

For years, “affordable housing” programs in Philly were aimed at the very lowest income levels. While those programs are still critical, they left out a huge group: working families who made too much to qualify for help, but not enough to keep up with skyrocketing real estate prices.

Turn the Key changes that. Through this innovative program, first-time buyers can get up to $75,000 toward the down payment and closing costs on a brand-new, move-in-ready home. This is real, substantial help; the kind of support that can turn homeownership from a far-off dream into a real possibility.

These aren’t fixer-uppers or outdated homes either. The properties are high-quality, energy-efficient new builds, designed to offer “ affordable luxury ” at a price working people can manage.

Who Qualifies?

The Turn the Key program was built with inclusivity in mind. You can qualify for this incredible opportunity if you meet these basic requirements:

Income: You can make up to 100% of the Area Median Income (AMI). For a single-person household, that’s $80,300 . For a family of four, the restriction rises to $105,400 . Yet, most eligible Turn the Key buyers actually make about $45,000 a year.
Credit Score: You don’t need a perfect credit history. Credit scores as low as 620-640 are accepted, depending on the lender. If your credit score doesn’t meet this requirement, that doesn’t mean you can’t qualify. The program also offers a pathway to credit repair programs which teach buyers how to get their credit purchase-ready!
First-Time Buyer: You must be a first-time homebuyer (or not have owned a home in the past three years).
Housing Counseling: You’ll need to complete a PHDC-approved housing counseling program to prepare you for success as a new homeowner. This counseling prepares you for the responsibilities that come along with homeownership

This program acknowledges that financial bumps along the way shouldn’t shut people out of homeownership forever. It was built for real people with real lives.

High-Quality Homes in Great Neighborhoods

One of the biggest misconceptions about “affordable housing” in Philadelphia is that it’s low-quality or located in undesirable neighborhoods. The Turn the Key program shatters that stereotype.

Homes built through the program are new construction, using modern materials, energy-efficient appliances, and smart design. They’re comparable in quality to market-rate new builds.

What’s more, many of these homes are being built in some of Philadelphia’s most beloved neighborhoods : areas like Grays Ferry, Brewerytown, and parts of North Philadelphia.

These are historic communities that have seen waves of gentrification in recent years. Turn the Key gives working families a chance to stay or move back to the neighborhoods they love, instead of being priced out.

How the Program Works

Turn the Key operates through a partnership between the City of Philadelphia , the Philadelphia Land Bank , private developers, and housing counselors. Here’s the basic process:

Developers Build the Homes: Prominent city developers like Civetta Property Group receive access to city-owned lots, allowing them to create affordable new homes without massive subsidies.
City Offers Financial Help: Qualified buyers can apply for up to $75,000 in assistance which goes towards the mortgage buy-down. This allows for lower monthly mortgage payments, which are, on average, lower than the average monthly rent for a two bedroom apartment in Philadelphia.
Buyers Attend Housing Counseling: Participants receive mandatory housing counseling to ensure they understand budgeting, credit management, and the responsibilities of homeownership.
Buyers Move In: Successful applicants become proud new homeowners, often in areas they might otherwise not have been able to afford.

The model is efficient, cost-effective, and designed for scalability. In fact, the city has plans to continue releasing new parcels of land for Turn the Key developments across Philadelphia.

A Response to Gentrification in Philadelphia

In many Philly neighborhoods, long-term residents have watched as their communities changed around them. New developments popped up, prices soared, and families who had lived there for generations found themselves priced out.

Turn the Key is a direct response to that trend. By offering affordable, high-quality homes right in the middle of rapidly developing areas, the program gives working families a fighting chance to stay put. It preserves the diversity, history, and soul of Philadelphia neighborhoods.

Instead of being pushed out by rising rents and cash buyers, Turn the Key buyers get to invest in their futures—in the very places they already call home.

Why It Matters

Homeownership has long been one of the most powerful tools for building generational wealth and stability, but without intervention, this dream was slipping out of reach for too many Philadelphians.

The Turn the Key program is restoring that dream. Turn the Key empowers regular people, not only the wealthy, to own a piece of the city they love. It strengthens neighborhoods by keeping local workers living nearby and helps narrow the gaps in racial equality that persist.

This isn’t just another first-time homebuyer program. It’s a movement toward a more equitable, vibrant, and livable Philadelphia. Turn the Key is already off to a strong start, with over 135 homes built and more than 75 currently under development. This is just the beginning!

Ready to Turn the Key to Affordable Housing in Philadelphia?

If you’re tired of feeling like homeownership is out of reach, the Turn the Key program might be your chance to break generational curses and build wealth for your family. Whether you’re a city worker, a teacher, or just someone who loves this city and wants to build a new life here, first-time homebuyer programs could be your ticket to a home of your own.

Civetta Property Group has helped over 100 first-time homebuyers successfully complete the Turn the Key program. Our homebuyer advocates are ready to answer your questions, walk you through the process , and show you available homes today.

Affordable housing in Philadelphia is possible. You just need the right key.

Contact a homebuyer advocate from Civetta Property Group today to learn more, get qualified for the Turn the Key program, or visit an open house!

10 Common Misconceptions About First-Time Homebuyer Programs: Debunked

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 07:00:05 GMT

How Programs Like the Turn the Key Initiative Make Affordable Housing in PA a Reality

Owning a home in Philadelphia might seem unrealistic, especially for renters and working families that feel squeezed by rising housing costs. Through first-time homebuyer programs in PA, like Philadelphia’s Turn the Key initiative, that dream is closer than many people realize. Despite its potential, Turn the Key and similar affordable housing programs for first-time homebuyers often go misunderstood. Misconceptions and outdated beliefs keep many qualified buyers from applying, simply because they don’t know what’s available—or worse, they assume they don’t deserve it. Let’s break down the most common myths we hear about affordable housing programs, and share what’s actually true.

Misconception #1: Turn the Key is Only for Certain People, Like City Employees or Low-Income City Residents

Reality: Turn the Key is a workforce housing program designed for everyday working Philadelphians. Anyone who meets the program guidelines can apply, and municipal employees receive preference.

Turn the Key isn’t tied to Section 8 or any traditional low-income rental assistance. Instead, it’s a workforce housing initiative which creates homeownership opportunities for individuals and families who earn too much to qualify for subsidized housing, but cannot afford to compete in Philadelphia’s expensive real estate market. Think of the people who keep Philly running: nurses, city workers, restaurant managers, social workers, and transit employees. These are the buyers Turn the Key was built for—everyday Philadelphians who are stuck in the “missing middle.” They earn too much for traditional assistance, but not enough to buy a regular market home. While city employees get a slight advantage in the form of priority access, they’re not the only ones who can apply. Turn the Key is open to anyone who qualifies based on income, credit score, and homeownership history. This program exists to help a broad range of working Philadelphians, including government workers, put down roots in the communities they serve and love.

Misconception #2: In First-Time Homebuyer Programs, The City Assigns You a Home

Reality: Buyers choose their home from available inventory in multiple neighborhoods.

Another persistent myth is that the city tells you where you have to live. That’s not how Turn the Key works. The city partners with developers like Civetta Property Group to build new homes across several Philadelphia neighborhoods, from West Philly to South Philly to Brewerytown. Buyers apply for eligibility, and once approved, they get to shop for a home that fits their lifestyle, just like any other buyer. This means you can find a home close to your job, your kids’ school, or the neighborhood you already love.

Misconception #3: First-Time Homebuyers Just Flip Turn the Key Homes to Rent Them Out

Reality: Buyers are required to live in the home and are unable to rent or flip it.

Turn the Key homes are meant to build long-term stability, not to exist as investment opportunities. Buyers are required to be owner-occupants , and the city has strict rules in place to prevent abuse of the program. If you try to rent out a Turn the Key home or use it as an investment property, you could be forced to return the home or repay the first-time homebuyer assistance you received. This ensures that the homes go to people who truly need and intend to live in them, keeping the spirit of the program intact.

Misconception #4: First-Time Homebuyer Programs Only Offer Old, Outdated Properties

Reality: Turn The Key homes are new construction, built with quality, affordability, and energy-efficiency in mind.

There’s a big difference between affordable and cheap. Turn the Key homes are not fixer-uppers. In fact, they’re designed and built specifically for first-time homebuyers, often including modern layouts, energy-efficient appliances, granite countertops, and outdoor space. Civetta Property Group has built over 135 Turn the Key homes, all thoughtfully designed to feel modern, comfortable, and tailored to the needs of working families.

Misconception #5: You Can Only Qualify for First-Time Homebuyer Programs if You’ve Never Owned a Home

Reality: You may qualify if you haven’t owned a home in the past three years.

This one may come as a surprise! If you sold a home years ago, or lost one due to hardship, that doesn’t mean you’re out of the running forever. Many programs, including the Turn the Key initiative, consider you a first-time buyer if you haven’t owned a primary residence in the past three years. That opens the door to people starting over, going through life transitions, or looking to get back into homeownership after a setback. Don’t count yourself out before checking the criteria!

Misconception #6: “Free Money” From First-Time Homebuyer Programs Always Has a Catch

Reality: While there are conditions, the assistance is real.

Yes, there are guidelines: you must live in the home, maintain it, and stay for a minimum number of years before certain grants are forgiven. But that doesn’t mean the help isn’t genuine. Programs like Turn the Key exist to make homeownership financially realistic. It isn’t too good to be true; it’s the result of smart public investment in long-term community stability.

Misconception #7: Even With Assistance, Owning a Home Costs More Than Renting

Reality: In Philadelphia, Turn the Key homes often cost less per month than renting.

The average rent for an apartment in Philly is around $1,725 per month. That’s money that disappears every month without building any equity. With the Turn the Key initiative, buyers can own a brand new home for around $1,350/month. Plus, unlike renting, you’re investing in your future and building generational wealth with every payment.

Misconception #8: Affordable Housing = Low Quality Neighborhoods

Reality: Turn the Key homes are in vibrant, up-and-coming neighborhoods near transit, parks, and schools.

Let’s bust this myth once and for all: affordable housing doesn’t mean poor housing. Civetta homes are located in revitalizing communities including Grays Ferry, Brewerytown, West Poplar, and Sharswood. These neighborhoods offer walkability, transit access, and the chance to grow alongside the city. Since the homes are new construction, you’re also saving on maintenance and utility costs compared to older properties.

Misconception #9: You need Perfect Credit to Qualify for First-Time Homebuyer Programs

Reality: Most programs accept credit scores as low as 620–640, with counseling available to help you improve.

Yes, your credit matters; but it doesn’t have to be flawless. Turn the Key and many other programs accept credit scores in the low 600s. If your score needs work, housing counseling will help you get mortgage-ready.

Misconception #10: Most People Earn Too Much to Qualify for Affordable Housing Programs

Reality: Programs like Turn the Key are designed for working- and middle-class households, not just low-income buyers.

Another common misconception is that PA’s affordable housing programs are only for those living in deep poverty. In reality, Turn the Key targets buyers making around 80–100% of the Area Median Income (AMI). Here’s what that looks like:

A single person making up to $80,300/year may qualify
A household of two can earn up to $91,800/year
A family of four can earn up to $114,700/year

These are not minimum-wage numbers. Yet, even at those income levels, buying an affordable home in PA without assistance is often out of reach. Turn the Key is designed to fill that gap and give more Philadelphians access to safe, beautiful, and affordable housing in the neighborhoods they love.

Quick Recap: 10 Misconceptions About First-Time Homebuyer Programs—Debunked

You don’t need to be a city employee or low-income to qualify. Turn the Key supports working- and middle-class Philadelphians.
You choose your home. No one assigns you a property—you shop for homes in neighborhoods across the city.
You must live in the home. Turn the Key buyers cannot rent or flip their properties.
Homes aren’t outdated. They’re newly built, energy-efficient, and thoughtfully designed for first-time buyers.
You can qualify even if you’ve owned a home before —just not in the last 3 years.
Assistance is real. Grants and down payment help come with guidelines, but no hidden catches.
Owning can cost less than renting. Average mortgage payments under Turn the Key are often lower than city rent.
Affordable doesn’t mean low quality. These homes are located in vibrant, growing neighborhoods across Philly.
You don’t need perfect credit. Many buyers qualify with scores as low as 620—and help is available.
You may still qualify based on income. Many working households earning up to $114K can still be eligible.

It’s Time to Rethink What Affordable Housing Looks Like

The biggest barrier to affordable homeownership for many people isn’t credit, or income, or paperwork: it’s misinformation. We carry outdated assumptions about what affordable housing is, who it’s for, and whether or not we qualify. First-Time homebuyer programs like Turn the Key change the game and challenge these misconceptions. With new construction homes, down payment assistance, and below-market mortgage payments, more Philadelphians than ever are stepping into homeownership for the first time. If you’ve been on the fence, now’s the time to get answers to your questions. The Civetta Property Group team is here to guide you, connect you to resources, and help you take that first step towards owning affordable housing in PA. Want to get qualified for the Turn the Key initiative? Contact a Civetta Property Group homebuyer advocate or check out our available homes today.

The Power of Supporting Women-Owned Businesses: A Celebration of Impact and Innovation

Sat, 01 Mar 2025 07:07:35 GMT

More than a performative gesture of solidarity, supporting women-owned businesses is a crucial investment in economic growth, innovation, and social equity. Women entrepreneurs bring fresh perspectives, empathetic leadership, and a commitment to community reinvestment that create lasting positive change.

At Civetta Property Group , we see this impact firsthand—not just through our leadership, but through the Turn the Key program, which strengthens women and families by helping them achieve the dream of affordable homeownership. Supporting women in homeownership enables them to achieve their personal and professional goals, strengthening communities and fueling economic empowerment.

Why Supporting Women-Owned Businesses Matters

Women-owned businesses are driving forces of economic progress. In 2024 alone, these businesses contributed $579.6 billion to the economy and created 1.4 million jobs, proving their resilience even in challenging times. By fostering inclusive workplaces and prioritizing employee development, these enterprises not only drive workforce diversity but also enhance decision-making and innovation.

Beyond financial contributions, women entrepreneurs reinvest earnings into their families and communities, improving education, healthcare, and local economies. This multiplier effect mirrors the impact of affordable homeownership programs like the Turn the Key initiative, where owning a home leads to generational wealth and community stability.

The Nuance of Leadership: Lessons from Brennan

At Civetta Property Group, co-owner Brennan Tomasetti embodies the innovation and adaptability that define women-led businesses. Her approach to empathy-driven decision-making and sustainability, qualities often associated with women-led enterprises , is reflected in the homes we build and makes homeownership through the Turn the Key program more accessible.

By focusing on collaboration and adaptability, Brennan cultivated a culture that values creativity and continuous improvement. This approach not only enhances our products but also strengthens our relationships with customers and partners.

Celebrating Milestones: Ribbon Cutting with Mayor Parker

On March 4th, we celebrated a major milestone with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for new Turn the Key homes on Turner Street, joined by Mayor Cherelle Parker, another powerful female leader, and key community leaders. The event marked the culmination of months of hard work and collaboration, symbolizing new beginnings for our business.

Beyond celebrating the completion of the homes, this event was a testament to resilience, economic empowerment, and community growth. Mayor Parker spoke about the importance of supporting local businesses and workforce housing programs, reinforcing the shared mission of Civetta Property Group and the Turn the Key initiative.

Attendees, including new Turn the Key homeowners, toured the homes, connected with community advocates, and witnessed firsthand how affordable homeownership in Philadelphia is transforming lives . Moments like these remind us why we do what we do—to create spaces where innovation thrives and communities flourish.

Building a Future Together

In an era where meaningful support for diverse entrepreneurs is often misunderstood or even weaponized, we must double down on supporting women-owned businesses and investing in a future where innovation and economic empowerment thrive.

Whether through buying from women entrepreneurs or advocating for policies that level the playing field like the Turn the Key program, every action contributes to a stronger, more equitable Philadelphia.

Let’s continue to celebrate and uplift the contributions of women—both in business and in homeownership—because when women succeed, communities thrive.

Become a Turn the Key Homeowner with Help from Civetta Property Group

Interested in homeownership? Learn how Turn the Key Philadelphia can help first-time homebuyers—especially women and families—achieve their dreams. Contact a homebuyer advocate to get started now.

Philadelphia Mayor Parker Joins Civetta Property Group to Celebrate Ribbon-Cutting for Turner Street Turn the Key Homes

Sat, 01 Mar 2025 06:40:02 GMT

A new milestone in Philadelphia’s affordable homeownership initiative was marked on Tuesday, March 4th as Mayor Cherelle Parker, alongside key city leaders and Civetta Property Group , led a celebratory ribbon-cutting event for new Turn the Key homes on the 900 Block of Turner Street. The event, attended by Councilmembers, Philadelphia Land Bank leadership, and new homeowners, showcased the impact of the Turn the Key initiative in providing quality, affordable housing for Philadelphia’s working and middle-class families.

Mayor Parker expressed her excitement for the initiative’s continued growth, stating, “I get giddy every time we celebrate a ribbon cutting for Turn the Key. It’s easy to point out problems, but real change comes from being willing to take risks and create solutions. Turn the Key is making homeownership accessible for the hardworking people of our city—those who have often been forgotten in the middle.”

Following a series of speeches from program leaders, including Civetta Property Group co-owner Brennan Tomasetti, Councilmembers Jeffery Young Jr. and Kendra Brooks, Philadelphia Land Bank Executive Director Angel Rodriguez, Guaranteed Rate Vice President of Mortgage Lending Jennifer Ashley, and Turn the Key homeowner Shakeda Gaines, the ceremony moved to the front of a newly completed home, where the mayor led the ribbon-cutting and a community cheer in celebration of the program’s success.

Turn the Key Program: Transforming Affordable Housing in Philadelphia

The Turn the Key initiative , a city-led initiative designed to boost affordable workforce housing, continues to provide an essential path to homeownership. With home prices in Philadelphia rising, the initiative ensures that working individuals and families can purchase quality new homes at affordable rates, with mortgage payments averaging just $1,350 per month. Buyers can also receive up to $75,000 in homebuyer assistance, significantly lowering financial barriers.

Civetta Property Group, a key development partner in the program, has already completed 135 homes, with 110 sold and 75 more currently under construction. Speaking at the event, Civetta co-founder Brennan Tomasetti shared a powerful story about the program’s real-life impact. She recounted how a casual conversation with a healthcare worker during a routine medical procedure led to a life-changing moment. The woman, struggling with housing insecurity, was deeply moved upon learning about Turn the Key. Months later, she reconnected with Tomasetti, now as a proud homeowner of a newly purchased Turn the Key home.

“I grabbed this woman and hugged her so hard—we were both in tears,” Tomasetti shared. “It was such an incredible moment, and it reinforced why this program matters. It’s truly changing lives and making homeownership possible for people who never thought it was within reach.”

Tomasetti went on to thank the Civetta Property Group team, PHDC, the Philadelphia Land Bank, and Mayor Parker, emphasizing that “without their dedication and collaboration, none of this would be possible.”

Expanding Homeownership Opportunities in Philadelphia

Mayor Parker reaffirmed the city’s commitment to expanding homeownership, highlighting her ambitious Mission 30,000 plan —an initiative to build and preserve 30,000 units of housing throughout Philadelphia.

“Philadelphia’s working residents deserve the opportunity to own a safe, beautiful, and affordable home. With programs like Turn the Key and partners like Civetta Property Group, we are making this a reality. Homeownership isn’t just about housing—it’s about building stability, equity, and opportunity for our communities.”

A Brighter Future for First-Time Homebuyers

The Turn the Key initiative has helped hundreds of Philadelphians transition from renting to owning, including many who never thought homeownership was within reach. The program prioritizes affordability, energy efficiency, and modern design while keeping homebuyers close to city amenities in vibrant yet peaceful neighborhoods.

For more information on Turn the Key homes, including available properties and eligibility requirements , call (267) 459-4011.

About Civetta Property Group

Civetta Property Group is a Philadelphia-based real estate development firm dedicated to building high-quality, affordable housing that strengthens communities and empowers first-time homebuyers. With a focus on modern design, energy efficiency, and long-term affordability, Civetta has played a key role in Philadelphia’s Turn the Key initiative , delivering thoughtfully crafted homes that provide financial stability and homeownership opportunities for Philadelphia’s working and middle-class families. Civetta’s homebuyer advocates provide a helping hand to first-time homebuyers navigating the process . To date, Civetta has completed over 135 Turn the Key homes , with many more in development.

Contact a homebuyer advocate today to start your homeownership journey!

A Home for the Holidays The greatest gift to give yourself this season — a new house.

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 07:45:08 GMT

A Civetta Property Group new-construction three-bedroom home at 9th and Diamond Streets. Asking price? $280,000 … BEFORE first-time homebuyer assistance programs.

At a moment when the average home price in our city is upwards of $300,000, it sounds almost too good to be true to find a new construction home in Philadelphia for $183,499 —but that’s the honest-to-goodness reality with Philadelphia’s Turn the Key program , a city-led initiative designed to boost affordable workforce housing in Philly and help Philadelphians who want to own their home do exactly that.

Since the program debuted in 2022, Turn the Key has created more than 700 (!) new single-family homes—and not just new single-family homes, but new homes offered at a price that working and middle-class families can afford, especially with Turn the Key’s assistance. The houses (and this program itself) have been brought to life specifically for Philadelphians who want to live and work in their city, who want to stop renting and start owning. And we here at Civetta Property Group have helped, creating 150 of those well-designed family houses. (Check out some of our properties here ! We’ve got another 200 planned for 2025!) In short? As the number of new homes continues to rise, Turn the Key is giving thousands of Philadelphians with moderate credit and minimal savings a new, more accessible path toward buying their own home in the city—even people who aren’t sure they can afford to buy a house in Philadelphia.

The best part? Not only do our Turn the Key homes offer buyers a far lower-than-average down payment, but the affordability continues into the future, allowing homeowners to build wealth for their families. Consider: The average monthly mortgage payment for a Turn the Key homeowner (including taxes and insurance) for a three-bedroom home is $1,353—far cheaper than average rent prices. And that’s for new-construction in Brewerytown, in West Poplar, in Grays Ferry, Sharswood, South Philly and more.

A Civetta Property Group new-construction three-bedroom, three-story home in Brewerytown. Asking price? $280,000 … BEFORE first-time homebuyer assistance programs

So … who exactly qualifies to buy a Turn the Key home? Here’s the scoop:

You must be a first-time buyer who has never owned a home, or not owned one three years prior to applying for Turn the Key.
Additionally, you have to go through one-on-one homeownership counseling before you sign an Agreement of Sale—in fact, many homeowners find this to be a plus. (TTK homebuyers get an average of 8 hours of free housing counseling!)
Finally: Your household income can’t be any higher than the Area Median Income, which is based on the size of your household. For instance, if you are a single-person household, the limit on income is $80,300. For a family of two, it’s $91,800; for a family of three, it’s $103,250 and for four, it’s $114,700. (And so forth; the list goes on .)

If you meet these requirements and want to own a new home in Philly, then the next step is to fill out this form and let us help determine if you’re further qualified. You should check it out: With the Turn the Key process, a new home is more affordable and accessible than you probably think. Our average buyer has an annual income of $40,000 to $60,000, and a credit score of 620. Also? Our buyers come from all over Philly—different backgrounds, different ages, different professions, different stories. (Want to know more? You can hear from our homeowners themselves here ! ) Here’s what they all have in common now, thanks to the tools that Civetta and Turn the Key have to offer first-time homebuyers—access to the affordable homes themselves; down payment assistance for renters; first-time home ownership assistance (including moral support!): the joy and pride, investment and stability of home ownership.

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So how, exactly, does all of this work? Well, firstly, it begins with the city-led mission: Making homeownership in Philadelphia easier for more Philadelphians. (Why? Because more homeowners means more of us are building wealth for our families and building up our neighborhoods and building up the city. Win-win-win.) Mayor Cherelle Parker has said she aims to see some 30,000 homes either built or preserved for Philadelphians who want to live and work in Philly, who want to put down roots in their city—and Turn the Key is a huge part of that goal. The initiative has called on and enabled a handful of experienced, civic-minded developers (including us here at Civetta! ) to buy up vacant land in neighborhoods around the city, and then build new homes on it—and not just any homes, but price-controlled homes, located conveniently near transit, designed specifically and thoughtfully with Philadelphia’s first-time buyers and working people in mind.

Not only are the homes price-controlled, which means that the average TTK starting home price is $280,000, but in addition to the low asking price, Turn the Key also offers its buyers who have never owned a home grants, loans, tax abatements and mortgage buydown programs via the city and the Philly Housing Development Corporation and the Turn the Key preferred lenders, which saves our homebuyers up to $75,000 or more off that price—hence the average mortgage amount of $183,499, a game-changing price for so many of our neighbors. That includes people who want to stop renting and start owning, people who aren’t sure if they can afford to buy a house in Philly (or in certain neighborhoods in Philly), and people who feel they just need a little bit more help buying a home for the first time. All of these people can find real help and a much-needed boost from their city and Turn the Key.

In fact, that—the joy of helping people find homes—is why we here at Civetta Property Group have been so excited to be a part of Turn the Key. Once upon a time, our firm was focused mainly on market-rate housing development, both big and small—a world in which we have decades of experience. But when we heard about an opportunity as developers to help boost affordable workplace housing, we were intrigued—we, too, live and work in this city, and have a vested interest in helping Philly and its people thrive.

So we gave it a shot, and found that the more we did, the more we wanted to keep doing. We’ve seen firsthand the way this program creates new paths for people who want to stop renting and buy a home in any number of neighborhoods around Philadelphia. We’ve seen hard-working people whose only main obstacle to homeownership was saving enough money for a downpayment finally get the tools they needed to make it happen through Turn the Key. We’ve seen families who never thought they could afford new construction—or any home at all within city limits—settle into their brand-new Philly home, and spend less money buying than they would have spent renting.

It’s all been extremely gratifying, and we truly can’t wait to work with more of our fellow Philadelphians in the coming year. And maybe that’s you! Please contact us at Civetta Property Group if you want more information about these affordable new-construction houses, about Philly’s Turn the Key program, or about any questions you have about finding first-time home buying help. Turn the Key might just be the boost you need to give yourself the gift of a new home this year.