First Time Home Buyer Program | Ocean Community Economic Action Now (OCEAN)
40 Main St, Toms River, NJ 08753
Eligibility
Individuals who:
- have not owned a home on their own in the past three years;
- are a resident of Ocean County and are a U.S. Citizen or a qualified alien with a steady employment history;
- have a down-payment amount of 3.0% of the Sales Price. (An amount of 1% of the Sales Price must be from your own account.);
- and who meet the HUD income requirements based on household size;
- meet the Asset Test requirements, and show an established pattern of savings;
- have sufficient income to support the monthly mortgage loan payment and monthly recurring debts;
- attend the O.C.E.A.N., Inc HUD-Certified Homeownership Education Workshops, which are offered to all applicants every three months;
- must be located in Ocean County;
- must be a single family home, condominium, townhouse, or a manufactured home. Mobile homes are not eligible;
- cannot exceed a $475,000 purchase price;
Required documents
Completed application, photo ID, proof of household income, social security number, proof of employment, bank statement, credit report, first-time buyer affidavit.
Hours
Mon - Fr 8:30am - 3:30pm
Morning hours by appointment only
Tues, Thurs 8:30am - 11:30am
732-244-5333, Ext. 1110
Voice·
Housing Counselor office
732-244-9041
Voice·
Main Phone
732-592-2229
Fax·
Fax
Email[email protected]
Application process
Visit the website to download or complete the application and review the
Program Guidelines 2026
Fees
No program fee for counseling or workshop attendance.
Service area
Ocean County, NJ
Provides down payment and closing cost assistance, homebuyer education, and ongoing counseling to help low- and moderate-income Ocean County residents purchase their first home in partnership with county planning departments and regional lenders.
Providing organization
Ocean Community Economic Action Now (OCEAN)
Offers comprehensive services that aim to improve the quality of life for individuals and families; and assist them in moving toward self-sufficiency. Services include utility and housing assistance.