In order to make the commonwealth a better place to live while fostering community and economic development, the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency provides capital for decent, safe and affordable homes and apartments for older adults, persons of modest means and those with special housing needs.
Relation to the State Government: Independent State Agency and a Public Corporation
Current Staff Size: 306
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1972
PHFA is established, begins operations with staff of eight next year.
1982
PHFA launches single-family affordable home loan programs.
1996
Foreclosure prevention program has helped 23,000 homeowners.
2003
PHFA starts statewide housing counseling network.
2011
The agency launches PaHousingSearch.com.
Total Financing Provided
Renters Served Since 1972
Homeowners Served Since 1972
Signature Program
Homeowners’ Emergency Mortgage Assistance Program (HEMAP)
Sometimes bad situations happen, like the loss of a job or a serious illness. PHFA’s Homeowners’ Emergency Mortgage Assistance Program, or HEMAP, assists people during these difficult times by helping them get current on their mortgage if they’ve fallen behind. HEMAP loan repayments help fund assistance to other homeowners facing foreclosure.
Family Homes Saved: 50,400
Future Focus
Robin Wiessmann
Executive Director & CEO
“It’s imperative that our housing agency place continuing and enhanced emphasis on addressing the issue of housing and social inequality in Pennsylvania. All people should have access to affordable housing. At PHFA, we must ensure that our programs are part of the solution for creating a more just and equitable commonwealth.”
Jake and Natalie Limm
Harrisburg, PA
Jake and Natalie Limm lived in an apartment for three years. It had no room for hobbies. No reserved parking. Plus, an extra fee if you wanted a pet. They were ready to buy a home. After months of searching, they bought a three-bedroom house – using an affordable PHFA home loan. With their cat Holly, they make a happy family.
Robert Nowell
Philadelphia, PA
A few years ago, Robert Nowell, 71, rented a room for his housing. Today he enjoys a one-bedroom apartment with a living room, kitchen and bathroom – plus his rent is lower. His building’s management also offers supportive services, like cooking classes. Now he’s eating better, has lost weight and his health’s improved.
Dave Marcellus
Aston, PA
When Dave Marcellus was laid off from his job, his home was in danger of foreclosure. With four children, the situation was dire. PHFA’s foreclosure prevention program helped with his monthly mortgage payment, saving their home and giving Dave time to find new employment. Today, Dave has paid off their mortgage, and they now own their home.
