Benefits

Live Near Your Work Program

The Maryland Institute College of Art has teamed with Baltimore City to offer grants for down payment and/or closing costs to eligible employees who choose to purchase homes in designated neighborhoods. If you meet the eligibility requirements, you may qualify for a $2,000 ($1,000 from the city and $1,000 from MICA) cash incentive grant that is paid at the time of settlement.

Living Near Your Workplace Now Makes Even More Financial Sense!

Down payment and settlement costs are one of the biggest barriers to homeownership, especially for first-time home buyers.

Who can apply?

The program is open to all full-time, benefit-eligible employees. There are no minimum years of service required.

How do I apply?

Please contact the Human Resources Office at 410-225-2363 prior to beginning the house search process.

LNYW Eligibility and Conditions:

To be eligible for a LNYW Grant the applicant must be:

  • Full-time, benefits-eligible employee of the Maryland Institute College of Art.
  • Purchase a home in a LNYW Program target area (see map).
  • Obtain a signed certificate documenting the completion of the Home Ownership counseling program prior to signing contract of sale. 
  • Agree to repay funds received from MICA in full if an employee leaves the college within 2 years of receiving LNYW payment. 
  • Agree to provide at least a $1,000 cash contribution toward the down payment and/or closing costs. 
  • Grants will not be rewarded retroactively.

The following conditions apply to grants awarded on or after October 1, 2012:

  • Grants are available on a first-come first-serve basis; the Program may be discontinued at any time.
  • Grants are provided at the discretion of MICA and Baltimore City. 
  • An application for a LNYW Program grant does not guarantee that a grant will be received. 
  • Grants are available only for homes purchased by MICA's designated area of the city.
  • Grant money may only be used for a down payment and closing costs at settlement for the purchase of an eligible residence; one grant per eligible address; one grant per employee.