The Affordable Home Ownership Program (AHOP) helps local families become homeowners, revitalizes neighbourhoods, and builds skilled trades workers in our community.
The Affordable Home Ownership Program is a partnership between the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH) and the District of Sault Ste. Marie Social Services Administration Board (DSSAB). The program was launched using a one-time investment from DSSAB’s Investing in Change Fund.
This initial investment allowed DSSAB to purchase homes in various states of disrepair. Through the Building Maintenance and Construction Training Program, participants work alongside an instructor to renovate these homes while gaining in-demand, hands-on skills in the trades.
Once complete, the homes are sold at an affordable price, helping families transition into home ownership while reinvesting proceeds into future AHOP properties.
Eligibility Update: Expanding Access to Home Ownership
Sault Ste. Marie Housing Corporation (SSMHC) has expanded eligibility for AHOP to allow more qualifying families from across the DSSAB area to apply.
Rising construction costs and a smaller pool of eligible buyers within the social housing tenant base has made it increasingly difficult to match homes with qualified buyers, even as local housing needs continue to grow. Expanding eligibility helps ensure renovated homes are sold efficiently to families ready for home ownership, allowing proceeds to be reinvested quickly into future housing projects.
While eligibility has expanded, priority continues to be given to individuals and families currently living in social housing. All existing safeguards remain in place to ensure homes stay affordable and protected over the long term.
Under the updated AHOP criteria, applicants must:
- Be employed full-time for a minimum of 12 consecutive months
- Qualify for a mortgage through a recognized financial institution
- Be Canadian citizens (all household members)
- Outline any connection to social services within the past five years
- Outline what program participation would mean for your family
The first home offered under expanded eligibility criteria is 123 Andrew St.
This is a three-bedroom, one-bathroom home featuring a paved driveway and fenced backyard, located in the downtown core. Priority will be given to a family household.
For more information on how to apply for this housing opportunity, contact Shelley Pezzutto: s.pezzutto@social-services-ssmd.ca
As of January 2026, AHOP has successfully purchased, renovated, and transferred ownership of four homes in Sault Ste. Marie. Click here to view the completed homes.
As of January 2026, there are five AHOP homes underway: 677 Queen St. W., 254 Albert St. W., 123 Andrew St., 116 Andrew St., and 68 Albert St.
