Housing & Shelter

Semcac Community Development Department staff provide the administration for the Bluff Country Housing and Redevelopment Authority (BCHRA), which was formed in 1991 to serve Fillmore and Houston counties. Both counties’ commissioners appoint two residents to serve on the governing board of the BCHRA.

Minnesota Housing Homeownership Programs

Make your dream of homeownership a reality with help from Minnesota Housing and the Bluff Country HRA! Whether you’re a first-time buyer, repeat buyer, or want to refinance, there’s an affordable Minnesota Housing program that’s right for you.

Visit the Minnesota Housing site to search for a lender. 

FAQs

  • Low, fixed interest rates for the life of the loan
  • Purchase and refinance options for first-time and repeat homebuyers
  • Down-payment and closing cost loans up to $17,000 for qualified borrowers
  • Exclusive 3% down conventional products with low-cost or no mortgage insurance
  • Works with industry standard products including FHA, VA, Conventional and Rural Development

Requirements vary based on program, and all borrowers must meet minimum credit score requirements. Visit the Minnesota Housing website for current information, including:

  • Income limits
  • Home cost limits
  • Homebuyer education requirements

Visit www.mnhousing.gov to find approved lenders and more information.

Small Cities Development Program

Bluff Country HRA and Semcac can partner with local governments to administer Small Cities Development Program projects in Fillmore and Houston counties. This program offers no interest, deferred loans for eligible homeowners to make necessary home repairs. A homeowner could use the loan funds for general improvements including the foundation, siding, gutters, electrical system, plumbing or heating system. Lead assessment and abatement is also a special focus, especially for households with young children. Other state and local funds are leveraged to help with additional improvements.

Rental Properties

Vesterheim Manor Apartments

Rental information- Life Styles Management– Representatives are available Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 4:30 pm. Office: 507.451.8524; TDD: 507.451.0704

Income-based rental housing for families and seniors (30% of income)

Spring Grove Manor Apartments

129 Maple Dr,
Spring Grove, MN

Spring Grove Manor Apartments has 31 independent living units for seniors (62+) and/or those with disabilities. Income restrictions apply. Rent is 30% of income. For information about this apartment, please contact Lloyd Management at 888-625-5573.

Harmony Manor

445 Main Ave,
Harmony, MN

Harmony Manor Apartments has 20 independent living units for seniors (62+) and/or those with disabilities. Rent is 30% of income. Income restrictions apply. For information about this apartment, please contact Lloyd Management at 888-625-5573.