FAQs
Have questions about the First Nations Market Housing Fund? We’ve gathered answers to the most common inquiries about who we are, what we do, and how we support First Nations communities.
What is the First Nations Market Housing Fund?
The First Nations Market Housing Fund is a non-profit organization that helps First Nations communities across Canada make homeownership possible on reserve lands. Many leaders want to give their members more choices beyond social housing, but starting a homeownership program can be hard. That’s where the Fund comes in: we offer tools like loan guarantees, training, and support to make it easier for communities to build, buy, or fix homes.
We work closely with communities, respecting their unique traditions and values, guided by the Seven Sacred Teachings. Today, the Fund is working with 41% of First Nations communities in Canada to help make safe, stable housing a reality.
Click here to learn more.
Where can I find information related to the Fund’s programs, services, application criteria, and procedures?
For First Nations: For information about the Fund’s programs, services, application criteria, and procedures, we would be happy to receive a request for invitation to have a representative of the Fund provide a Business Development presentation to your Chief and Council and senior administration. To request a presentation, please call 1-866-582-2808 or send an email to info@fnmhf.ca about opportunities on working with the Fund.
For First Nations individuals: For information about the Fund’s programs and services, individuals are encouraged to connect with their Band (housing department) to determine if your First Nation is signed up with the Fund as a first step. For more details about our programs and services, please read this article.
If your First Nation is not currently working with the Fund and wishes to do so, your First Nation can get started by connecting with someone from our staff.
Does the Fund offer their services for individuals and communities off-reserve?
The Fund’s mandate is to support homeownership on reserve lands – this includes members currently living on reserve and those who want to return to their community. For purchases of off-reserve housing there are alternative resources available, please see our Resources Page for more information.
Does the Fund offer assistance with obtaining loans and/or mortgages?
The Fund is not a lender, but through our Credit Enhancement (CE) program, we provide a 10% portfolio guarantee to approved loans – further strengthening the quality of the loan portfolio with the lender.
The Fund’s CE program assists First Nations in the development of a loans program to support the purchase, construction, and renovation of homes on reserve by individual members. The Fund will assist the Nation in developing an on-reserve loan program with our approved lenders which meets the specific needs of that community.
Individual members who are interested in homeownership in their community should contact their Housing Department to receive information on their Nation’s Homeownership Program and arrange individual financial wellness sessions with an FNMHF Homeownership Navigator. For additional details, please read this article.
I am planning on moving back to my community on reserve. How does the Fund play a role?
If you’re planning to move back to your community/on reserve, we recommend reaching out to your First Nation’s Housing department, housing manager or band manager. If your First Nation is working with the Fund, contact the designated person at your First Nation.
Can someone from the Fund provide an overview of the program for our team?
Yes, please reach out to info@fnmhf.ca or call 1-866-582-2808. Our Programs and Services team will be able to help to set up a date to provide a presentation to your Chief and Council about opportunities working with the Fund.
I want to get a mortgage to build a new home on reserve. What am I eligible for in terms of assistance?
Provided your First Nation signed up and working with the Fund, you may be eligible for financial counselling support that can help you access a loan to build, purchase, renovate or refinance a home in your First Nation using an approved bank or credit union. You may also be eligible for homeownership-related workshops that we offer.
To get started, inquire with your First Nation housing department about its homeownership programs. You can also send us your inquiry by email at info@fnmhf.ca or by phone at 1-866-582-2808.
How can I determine which financial institutions are on the Fund’s approved lender list?
For a list of our participating lenders, click here.
My Credit Enhancement Agreement has expired, what should I do?
If your Credit Enhancement (CE) Agreement has expired, kindly contact the Senior Program Officer (SPO) responsible for your First Nation. If you are unsure of the SPO, please reach out to info@fnmhf.ca or call 1-866-582-2808 for assistance.
How can the Fund guide first-time homebuyers through the process, and what resources are available?
Our Homeownership Navigators can help you navigate your first home journey. Please reach out to info@fnmhf.ca or call 1-866-582-2808.