Advantages
The Governor's House
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any restrictions as to where I may place the house?
The home may be placed anywhere in South Dakota*.
*Lot must be accessble to the movers.
Can I buy the house to use as a weekend cabin at the lake?
"The Governor's House" must be the homebuyer's only place of residence.
Is there a time frame of how long I have to live in the house?
You must live in the home for 3 years before you can make a profit on the sale of the house. If you sell the house before 3 years, you may only re-coop your initial investment.
Can I buy more than one?
Unfortunately, no. Each person/couple can only buy one in a lifetime. Nonprofits, however, can buy more than one for their community, as long as the homes are sold to qualified buyers.
Can I own other property?
Yes, as long as this house is your only residence.
Do I have to be a prior homeowner?
Anyone who meets the income guidelines is eligible to purchase a house, regardless if they have owned a home before or if this is the first time they are purchasing a home.
How much do the houses cost?
$33,000. This includes the price of the house, transportation to your lot and placing the house on the foundation. The price may be subject to change.
What other costs must I consider before purchasing?
The price of the lot, the cost of putting in the foundation, state, city and excise taxes, sewer, water and utility hookups, floor coverings and appliances. Other considerations may include a survey, sidewalks, driveway, curb and gutter, and landscaping.
Can I place the house on a basement?
Yes. SDHDA will provide the plans for a basement which show where the stairway cutout is to be located. SDHDA also provides footing and foundation plans for a foundation.
How do I finance the house?
You would finance this house like any other house you might purchase. Contact your local lender for financing information. South Dakota first time homebuyer programs, Veteran Affairs, FHA and Rural Development all qualify for financing the "Governor's House".
Do I have a choice of siding colors?
Yes. You can select Sand or Clay vinyl siding.
How does a person qualify for a Governor's House?
Households of 2 or less with a household income not to exceed $33,900.
Households of 3 or more with an income not to exceed $39,550.
Under the age of 62: Net worth not to exceed $90,000 and liquid assets under $70,000. For families and individuals age 62 and older, net worth must be less than $175,000 or less than $100,000 in liquid assets.
Eligible buyers also include housing authorities, non-profit organizations, economic development corporations and local chambers of commerce planning to sell to qualified purchasers.
Can I order extra siding if I want to add a garage?
SDHDA will provide the manufacturer name and color number, so that you can purchase matching siding from a local dealer.
Is there access to the crawl space from inside the house?
There is a crawl space access framed in, in the back bedroom's closet floor, but not cut out.
Are the walls painted?
Yes. All walls are taped, textured and painted.
How thick are the walls?
The exterior walls are 2" x 6" studs, 16"o.c., ½" OSB board sheathing, with a 4 mil vapor barrier. The interior walls are 2" x 4" studs, 16"o.c., ½" Gypsum board.
What kind of insulation is in the house?
R-19 batt insulation is in the walls and R-44 fiberglass blown-in insulation is in the roof.
Does it come with an air conditioner?
No. The homeowner can purchase one from a local dealer. Central air is easily adaptable to the forced air furnace system.
Does it come with a hot water heater and water softener?
An electric hot water heater is provided. A water softener is not included.
What are some other features of the house?
Solid oak cabinets, four telephone jacks, three cable TV hookups, five closets, two outside electrical outlets, 30" range hood with a light, bathroom fan and three smoke detectors. Standard light fixtures are included.
Any more questions?
Contact your area Sales Representative or SDHDA at 1-800-540-4241
Click here if you are interested in purchasing a Governor's House.
