Workforce Housing Rehabilitation Program
The Ocean City Development Corporation (OCDC) is committed to preserving and improving the quality of housing for Ocean City’s workforce. Our new Workforce Housing Rehabilitation Program offers financial assistance to property owners who wish to renovate or convert existing buildings into quality workforce housing units within downtown Ocean City, from the Inlet to 17th Street.
This program replaces our previous Workforce Housing and Employee Housing Development programs, shifting focus from new construction to the rehabilitation of existing housing — helping maintain safe, affordable living options for employees who live and work in Ocean City.
Financial Assistance
OCDC provides grant funding for demolition, new construction, and renovations:
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Maximum Grant: $10,000 per property
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Funding Ratio: 2:1 (OCDC reimburses $1 for every $3 spent by the owner)
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Example: $30,000 in eligible renovations = $10,000 reimbursement
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Minimum Grant: $1,000
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Payment Method: Reimbursable basis, after project completion and inspection
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Lifetime Limit: $10,000 maximum per property over 10 years
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Stackable: Can be combined with other OCDC programs (Façade Improvement, Green Building Initiatives, Roof Improvement)
Eligibility
This program supports substantial rehabilitation or conversion projects that improve habitability, safety, and comfort for workforce tenants.
Eligible work includes:
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Major systems (plumbing, electrical, HVAC)
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Foundation and structural improvements
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Windows, doors, insulation, and weatherization
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Exterior improvements (siding, decks, railings, trim)
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Kitchen and bathroom renovations
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Conversion projects (non-residential → residential, single-family → multi-unit, or large → smaller units)
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Flooring, lighting, framing, drywall
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Fixed appliances, cabinets, and vanities
Not eligible for funding:
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Roof repair or replacement
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General maintenance, cleaning, or painting
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Furniture and freestanding appliances
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Non-permanent fixtures or sweat equity
Eligibility
Requirements
To participate, applicants must:
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Own property (or have owner’s consent if tenant) within OCDC’s target area
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Be in compliance with all codes and ordinances
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Have no outstanding tax liens or code violations
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Demonstrate financial capacity for the match
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Use licensed contractors and obtain proper permits
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Maintain the property as workforce housing for at least five years
Program Guidelines
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Timeline: Projects must be completed within 12 months of approval.
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Pre-Approval Required: All work must be approved by OCDC before starting.
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Repayment Clause: If a property is sold, demolished, or no longer used as workforce housing within five years, a prorated repayment is required.
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Documentation: OCDC must photograph the property before and after renovations.
Tehnical Assistance
OCDC will review project plans before submission to ensure they align with the Development and Assistance Program’s goals. Our team can provide guidance on design, compliance, and best practices for workforce housing development.
Invest in Workforce Housing & Strengthen the Community!
Enhance your property’s value while supporting the local workforce. Apply today!
How To Apply
Do not start any work until you receive OCDC approval.
Step 1
Talk To Us
Contact OCDC to discuss your project.
Step 2
Get a Contractor
Obtain a proposal from a licensed contractor.
Step 4
Submit Documents
Provide the contractor's proposal alone with your application
Step 5
Board Review
The OCDC Board will review your project and determine funding.
Step 6
Approval
If approved, you'll receive an award lettter and next step.