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Keeping Detroiters in Their Homes
Securing Homes, Preserving Legacies
Mr. & Mrs. Hughes lost their family home to property tax foreclosure. They sought the assistance of JEI to resecure the home from the Detroit Land Bank via their Buy Back program.
JEI’s Housing team guided them through the process successfully. With this assistance, a multi-generational family was able to stay in the neighborhood.
Your Path to Resilient Homes & Thriving Neighborhoods Starts Here
At JEI, we believe that resilient homes are cornerstones of thriving neighborhoods. As a HUD-approved counseling agency and a proud partner in the Detroit Housing Network (DHN), we’re here to help you unlock opportunities that transform housing challenges into sustainable solutions.
Our dedicated Housing Services team offers personalized assistance and connects residents to city, state, and federal programs designed to uplift and sustain the communities we serve. Whether you’re a homeowner seeking resources or preparing for your first purchase, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Our services include:
Energy-Saving Upgrades Can Make Your Home More Comfortable Year-Round
Drafty Home? Let Us Help You Save Energy & Stay Comfortable
If you're experiencing a drafty home and desire lower utility costs and more comfort, apply for the DTE EEA program by applying below.
*Please note that services depend on eligibility, account type, funding availability, and home assessment results.
You will need the following items to complete your application:
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Proof of Identification
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Proof of Household Income/Public Assistance (30 days required)
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Proof of Homeownership (Deed or Tax Statement)
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DTE Account Number
Questions?
Contact: LaTosha Johnson at (313) 314-2672 Email: LJohnson@JeffersonEast.org
Together, let’s build stronger, more vibrant communities—one home at a time.
Property Tax Assistance and
Tax Foreclosure (HOPE)
Housing and
Credit Counseling
Home Repair and
Energy Efficiency Services
Partner Referrals
Homebuyer Preparation, Counseling and Education
Asset Protection
(Estate Planning Workshops)
Property Tax Assistance and Tax Foreclosure
Need assistance with your property taxes? Current or past due? Our housing counselors can assist you with options:
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Property tax exemptions
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Property tax foreclosure prevention
For assistance, please contact our housing team at 313-314-6414.
Homeowners Property Tax Exemption (HOPE) 2026 Applications Available Now
Applications for the 2026 Homeowners Property Tax Exemption Program (HOPE) are available.
HOPE is a Detroit property tax relief program that can reduce or eliminate city property taxes for income-eligible homeowners on their primary residence.
If you need help applying, gather your supporting documents and contact us at 313-314-6414 for assistance.
If you are approved for HOPE and the Pay As You Stay (PAYS) programs, the Detroit Tax Relief Fund may help eliminate any remaining delinquent property taxes.
Contact the Detroit Tax Relief Fund at 313-244-0274.
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Download and print HOPE Application
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Review and gather required documents
Housing and Credit Counseling
JEI helps homeowners learn about building and restoring your credit, slashing your debt, budgeting, managing savings and assets. We offer workshops, personal one-on-one financial counseling sessions, coaching, and training events to help you reach greater financial stability including:
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Free Tri-merge Credit Report (all three credit bureaus - a $100 value)
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Here’s how to get started:
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Complete the Interest Form: Navigate to the “Home Repair Waiting List” section.
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Provide Your Details: Fill in your contact information, repair needs, and other essential details.
Take the first step toward a safer, healthier, and more energy-efficient home today!
Home Repair and Energy Efficiency Services
Is Your Home Ready for Every Season? Looking to save on energy bills and keep your home comfortable year-round? JEI’s weatherization and home repair services can help. As a participant in the Detroit Home Repair Fund and other state-run home repair programs, JEI combines these resources to assist residents in making their homes resilient, safe, and healthy. With simple yet effective upgrades, you can protect your home, reduce energy usage, and cut costs—all while improving your quality of life.
Need dependable home repair or weatherization services? Join our waiting list today to secure your spot with one of our housing counselors. Our streamlined sign-up process ensures your repair needs are prioritized and connects you to essential resources.
Alternative Home Repair Programs
The City of Detroit's 0% Interest Home Repair Loan program is expected to return in 2026. Applications and phone intake appointments are not available yet. JEI's housing team will assist Detroit homeowners with the loan intake process once the City reopens the program, including clarifying eligibility, helping gather required documents, and submitting applications.
Please check this page for updates, or sign up for JEI's newsletter or SMS alerts below to receive immediate notifications when applications become available.
For general questions, call JEI's Housing team at 313-314-6414.
Asset Protection Estate Planning
Ensuring your home and financial assets are protected for future generations is an important step in building a resilient legacy. Through our partnership with the Detroit Housing Network, residents can access estate planning and will workshops that empower you with the knowledge to make informed decisions. Led by experienced housing counselors, these workshops cover topics such as wills, trusts, and the probate process. Eligible residents can even receive free estate planning services after attending a workshop.
Click below to learn more and take the next step in safeguarding your family’s future.
Housing Sustainability
A healthy community is a strong community. The Housing team at JEI has established partnerships with the University of Michigan’s School of Public Health and Wayne State University’s Center for Urban Studies. Together we address the needs of our most vulnerable residents by developing and disseminating resources related to reducing energy burdens, climate adaptation, flood mitigation, remediation, and emergency preparedness and assistance, thereby ensuring a more sustainable and resilient community.
JEI Housing Counselors are available by phone or in our offices (by appointment), Monday through Friday, 9AM - 5PM
You may also access our counselors, and programs and services in person at the JEI Neighborhood Resource Hub .
313-314-6414
313-769-8627
14300 E. Jefferson Avenue
Detroit, MI 48215 (Main entrance on Lakewood Street)
Our Valued Partners & Funders
Thank You for Support
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