Program manager Omega Allen says the dollars are focues on five zip codes, four on the city's northside and another near the Clay Couny line. 

"Those zip codes were identified by the percentage of foreclosures in those areas," Allen said.

Qualified developers purchase the forclosed homes and rehabilitate them, connecting the houses to water and sewer systems, installing air conditioners, carpeting, and Energy Star-rated apppliances.

The homes are then sold at affordable prices to attract middle-income families to the neighborhoods. Allen says, on average, a family of three earning $70,000 a year or less can apply and in some cases, as much as $30,000 in down payment assistance will be awarded.

"We're going to be able to get foreclosed-upon homes back on the tax roll," Allen says. "And we will be able to provide affordable housing for income-eligible households."

"We are excited for the opportunity to leverage federal dollars to provide hundreds of Jacksonville residents with the opportunity to own a quality, affordable home," Mayor John Peyton says. "The NSP program is a win-win for all in that it provides developers and contractors with much needed work during this econimc downturn, offers families quality affordable housing and helps further stabilize our neighborhoods."

Interested home-buyers cannot currently own a home and the NSP home purchased must be used at the primary residence.

You can find much more on the city's stabilization program by visiting the website or calling (904)-398-HOME.