How Alexandria EHIP works
EHIP is an interest-free deferred loan: $15,000 at or below 80% AMI, $11,500 at 80–120%, or $7,500 above 120%, prorated for part-time employees.
It is for employees working at least 20 hours per week for the City, public schools, courts and listed offices (see brochure). The home must be in the City, of any property type, and be your primary residence.
The 2026 brochure lists a maximum price of $750,000; the City page lists $725,000. Confirm the current cap with the program. The 80% AMI figures are $93,040 for 1 person and $132,880 for 4.
You need a Virginia Housing education certificate and an executed purchase agreement when you apply. EHIP combines with FHAP; SPARC is paused.
Key benefits
Interest-free deferred loan
The loan is interest-free and deferred, with amounts based on income.
Any property type in the City
The home must be in Alexandria and your primary residence.
Combines with FHAP
EHIP can be combined with Alexandria's FHAP; SPARC is paused.
The steps
Check employee eligibility
Work 20 or more hours a week for the City, public schools, courts or listed offices; see the brochure.
Complete education
Obtain a Virginia Housing education certificate.
Confirm the price cap
The brochure says $750,000 and the City page says $725,000; confirm with the program.
Apply with your agreement
An executed purchase agreement is required with the application.
Watch out for
Assuming the cap is settled
The 2026 brochure and City page differ on the maximum price; confirm with the program.
Applying without a purchase agreement
Apply with an executed purchase agreement.
Mistaking the assistance for a grant
EHIP is an interest-free deferred loan, prorated for part-time employees.
Frequently asked questions
Is EHIP a grant?
No. It is an interest-free deferred loan, prorated for part-time employees.
Which employees can ask about EHIP?
Employees working 20 or more hours weekly for the City, public schools, courts and listed offices; consult the brochure for covered offices.
What is the maximum home price?
The 2026 brochure says $750,000 while the City page says $725,000. Confirm the current limit with the program.
Can EHIP be combined with FHAP?
Yes. EHIP combines with FHAP; SPARC is paused.
Explore Alexandria programs
Check your options and ask the City about EHIP employee eligibility.
Check If You May Qualify
Find Programs I May Qualify ForProgram details change frequently — verify current guidelines with a licensed lender; this is not a commitment to lend or a guarantee of eligibility.
Last updated: October 2026. Licensed in VA, MD and DC. Not affiliated with Virginia Housing, the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development, or any county or city housing office.
Related programs
Source: City of Alexandria (alexandriava.gov). Checked 2026-10-02.