LUCKY residents of one town in America could be entitled to up to $20,000 to buy a home and the eligibility criteria is simple.
The town of Cumberland, Maryland has made an enticing offer to try and attract Americans to live there.
3
3
By offering this whopping cash sum, the town hopes to incentivize families to start a new life, the New York Post reports.
“The package, offering up to $20,000, is comprised of $10,000 in relocation cash, PLUS up to $10,000, dollar-for-dollar match, for approved renovations on an existing home, OR for a down payment on a newly constructed home within City limits,” the Cumberland town website says.
The advert emphasizes the convenience of Cumberland’s location, as well as its access to nature and connectivity to major cities.
Cumberland is just a two-hour drive to Baltimore.
“Cumberland’s history is built around a location in close proximity to Pittsburgh, D.C., and Baltimore,” the website reads.
It is located on the Potamic River in Allegany County – about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Annapolis, Maryland – and has 70,000 acres of nature.
The website also advertises Cumberland’s “95% broadband connectivity” and its interstate highway and rail access.
“19,000 Cumberland residents can choose their own lifestyle. The downtown is retooled for modern use,” it says.
It seems this advert has been made in an effort to draw in new residents to the community.
Cumberland’s population dropped 12% between 2020 and 2022, according to city data.
In 2022, it had a population of just 18, 769 residents.
“Cumberland has a strong and growing sense of place, big enough to provide services and infrastructure, small enough that everyone matters,” the website advert continues.
“A quarter million visitors annually choose Cumberland’s amenities as a travel destination.
Who is eligible?
Applicant must:
- Be eligible to work in the US with full-time employment.
- Have existing local employment, proof of self-employment or be in the process of accepting a job in the area.
- Be 18 years or over.
“Public investment for this industry provides upgraded entertainment and cultural options unique in a Mid-Atlantic small-town setting.”
Cumberland also reportedly boasts walkable neighborhoods and around-the-clock fire, police, and emergency services.
HOW TO APPLY
Applicants must purchase a home and live in it as their primary residence for at least 5 years.
If an individual chooses to purchase a newly constructed home, its value must not be less than $150,000.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old and must be eligible to work in the US with full-time employment.
They must also have existing local employment, proof of self-employment, or be in the process of accepting a job in the area.
The U.S. Sun has contacted Cumberland town officials for comment on the scheme.
3
