September 2026

From the Front Lines to the Front Door:

How AHFA Programs ‘Protect and Serve’ First Responders

Affordable homeownership is more than just a financial goal — it’s a cornerstone of stability for the people who protect and serve our communities every day.

Police officers, firefighters, and EMTs often work long, unpredictable hours under high-stress conditions. Having a secure, stable place to come home to can help them recharge and reconnect with their families. And enabling essential workers to live where they serve strengthens their relationships with residents, increases safety, and builds mutual respect.

Unfortunately, rising costs are making it more difficult for first responders to afford homes near their workplaces. This forces many to commute long distances, adding stress, reducing rest time, and potentially impacting their ability to respond quickly in emergencies.

With competitive mortgage rates and down payment assistance, AHFA’s First Step and Step Up programs can help bridge this gap.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS May 2024 survey
First Step income limits vary by household size and property location.

Median salaries for first responders in Alabama fit well within federal income limits for AHFA’s First Step and Step Up programs.

“These local heroes already make many sacrifices to serve and protect us,” said Carrie Hamaker, AHFA’s single-family administrator. “Homeownership should not be one of them.”

Hamaker urged lenders and Realtors to keep AHFA’s First Step and Step Up programs at the forefront when working with first responders.

“The professionals who keep our communities safe are traditionally overworked and underpaid,” said Hamaker. “Offering them affordable homeownership opportunities is a way to give back and to show our appreciation for their service.”

See current First Step and Step Up interest rates, income limits, and other program details at www.ahfa.com.

Tony Lee Appointed Manager of Homeownership Programs

Please join us in congratulating Tony Lee on his new role as Homeownership Programs Manager at the Alabama Housing Finance Authority. A longtime and valued member of the AHFA team, Tony has brought years of experience, dedication, and a genuine commitment to helping Alabamians achieve homeownership.

“Throughout his time with AHFA, Tony has been a trusted resource to our lending partners, colleagues, and the families we serve,” said AHFA Single-Family Administrator Carrie Hamaker. “In his new role, he will continue that commitment while helping lead AHFA’s homeownership programs and strengthen the partnerships that make our work possible.”

Tony said he looks forward to making a meaningful impact by solving problems and improving processes.

“My favorite thing about the mortgage industry is the opportunity to help people achieve homeownership,” he explained. “Buying a home is one of the biggest milestones in a person’s life, and it's rewarding to know that the work we do helps make that dream a reality.”

Realtors and Lenders, Let’s Connect!

Are you a mortgage or real estate professional who wants to know more about AHFA programs? AHFA offers on-site training on our programs that covers borrower and property eligibility, processing, documentation, income calculations and more. Our “Doing Business with AHFA” class qualifies for 3 CEUs, certified by the Alabama Real Estate Commission. To schedule an informational visit or training session, simply email Alana Beaugez .