Assorted links to government agencies and programs for buyers and owners of owner-occupied 2-4 unit properties
This directory links to official federal agencies and government-sponsored enterprises only — no state-specific programs are included.
Financing Programs
HUD, FHA Single Family Housing Policy Handbook 4000.1
HUD’s official rulebook for FHA loans, including owner-occupancy requirements and property standards for 1-4 unit properties.
https://www.hud.gov/hud-partners/single-family-handbook-4000-1
Fannie Mae, HomeReady Mortgage Loan and Borrower Eligibility (Selling Guide B5-6-01)
Fannie Mae’s official guide to the HomeReady mortgage program for income-qualified borrowers buying 1-4 unit owner-occupied properties.
https://selling-guide.fanniemae.com/sel/b5-6-01/homeready-mortgage-loan-and-borrower-eligibility
Freddie Mac, Mortgages for 2- to 4-unit Properties
Freddie Mac’s program page covering financing options, including Home Possible, for 2-4 unit owner-occupied properties.
https://sf.freddiemac.com/working-with-us/origination-underwriting/mortgage-products/mortgages-for-2-to-4-unit-properties
Government Agencies and Consumer Protection
HUD’s general home-buying resource hub, covering the buying process, loan programs, and homeowner counseling.
https://www.hud.gov/helping-americans/buying-a-home
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s home-buying resource center, with tools and explainers on loan estimates, closing costs, and the mortgage process.
https://www.consumerfinance.gov/owning-a-home/
A plain-language glossary of common mortgage terms from the CFPB.
https://www.consumerfinance.gov/language/cfpb-in-english/mortgages-key-terms/
Property Condition and Safety
HUD, For Your Protection: Get a Home Inspection
HUD’s official guide explaining why a home inspection matters and what it covers.
https://www.hud.gov/sites/dfiles/OCHCO/documents/92564-CN.pdf
EPA, Real Estate Disclosures About Potential Lead Hazards
The EPA’s official page on lead-based paint disclosure requirements for housing built before 1978.
https://www.epa.gov/lead/real-estate-disclosures-about-potential-lead-hazards
Fair Housing
HUD, Fair Housing Act Overview
HUD’s overview of the Fair Housing Act, including the protected classes and what the law covers for buyers, sellers, and landlords.
https://www.hud.gov/helping-americans/fair-housing-act-overview
Taxes
IRS, Publication 527, Residential Rental Property
The IRS’s official publication on how to report income, expenses, and depreciation for residential rental property, including properties where the owner also lives.
https://www.irs.gov/publications/p527
IRS, Rental Income and Expenses — Real Estate Tax Tips
The IRS’s rental income and expenses tax tips page, summarizing reporting basics for landlords.
https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/rental-income-and-expenses-real-estate-tax-tips
Housing Data and Definitions
U.S. Census Bureau, Building Permits Survey — Classification FAQ
The U.S. Census Bureau’s official classification guide explaining the difference between single-family and multifamily housing structures.
https://www.census.gov/construction/bps/faqs/class_faq.html