(From the Seneca County Land Bank)

The Seneca County Land Bank is reminding income-qualified residents that applications are still open for the Welcome Home Ohio Program through December 12, 2025. Five brand-new homes on Walnut Street in Fostoria are available for purchase at 1310, 1314, 1318, 1322, and 1326 Walnut Street.

These 1,304 to 1,380 square foot homes each feature 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and are fully furnished with brand-new appliances.

Pre-Qualification Is the First Step

To be considered, all applicants must complete the pre-qualification process, which includes:

• A bank or mortgage pre-approval letter
• Proof that household income is at or below 80% of Area Median Income (AMI)
• All forms included in the Welcome Home Ohio application packet

Applicants may seek mortgage pre-approval from any bank or lending institution. However, several local project partner banks—Sutton Bank, Old Fort Bank, Croghan Colonial Bank, and WesBanco—offer additional support that may help eligible buyers. These partners provide options such as zero- or low-down-payment programs, low-interest loans, and down-payment assistance.

Only pre-qualified buyers will be invited to participate in the offer process. These pre-qualified buyers will determine the final purchase price of each home through their offers.

Who Should Apply

Residents who meet the income guidelines and want to purchase a safe, modern, affordable home are strongly encouraged to apply. Applicants will also be reviewed for possible support through the CHIP Program, offered in partnership with Great Lakes Community Action Partnership (GLCAP).

How to Get an Application

Applications can be obtained:

• Online at https://fostoriaedc.org/newhomes/
• At the Fostoria Learning Center, 342 Perry St., Fostoria
• By email at projects@fostoriaedc.org

How to Submit

Completed application packets must be placed in a sealed envelope and delivered to:

Seneca County Land Bank c/o Fostoria Economic Development 342 Perry St. Fostoria, OH 44830

Application deadline is 5 p.m. Friday, December 12, 2025.

About the Program

The Welcome Home Ohio Program is supported by a $2.75 million grant from the Ohio Department of Development to help create new homeownership opportunities in both Fostoria and Tiffin.

More Information

For questions or help, call 419-435-7789 or email projects@fostoriaedc.org. Application packets: https://fostoriaedc.org/newhomes/