To qualify, applicants must be first-time homebuyers, which means no one in the household has owned a residential property in the past three years. This includes property held in a trust.

There are a few exceptions to this rule:

• Displaced homemakers who previously owned a home with a partner or lived in a partner-owned home, but have not worked full-time in the labor force for at least two years.

• Single parents who previously owned or lived in a home with a partner, and are now unmarried or legally separated with custody (or joint custody) of at least one minor child or are pregnant.

• Households who previously owned a mobile home or property not permanently affixed to a foundation.

• Households who owned a home that does not meet state or local building codes and cannot be brought into compliance for less than the cost of constructing a new home.

If you’re not sure whether you qualify under one of these exceptions, we encourage you to reach out for clarification.

You can find approved first-time homebuyer education classes through the Massachusetts Homeownership Collaborative. Visit mymasshome.org/homeownership-education-calendar to view upcoming class dates, locations, and registration details.

These classes are required for eligibility and must be completed through a certified provider.

Applications will be available from July 7, 2025 to October 7, 2025 and can be accessed in the following ways:

• Download online:
  Request an application at the top of this page or visit theneighborhooddevelopers.org

  Request by mail:
  Call 617-884-0692 to have an application mailed to you

• Pick up in person:
  Visit 4 Gerrish Ave. Rear, Chelsea, MA 02150 during business hours:

  • Monday, Wednesday, Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

  • Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM

  • Friday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

• Request by email:
  Contact home@ninasoto.com

Yes. Each home at 272 Cross Street has a monthly condo fee. The amount depends on the unit:

• One-bedroom units have a condo fee of $325 per month

• Two-bedroom units have a condo fee of $350 per month

Condo fees cover shared building expenses and services as outlined in the condominium documents, which will be provided to buyers during the process.

Yes. During the initial sales process, a local preference will be given to eligible applicants who have a connection to the City of Malden. This may include:

• Households with at least one member currently living in Malden

• Municipal employees, such as city hall staff, teachers, police officers, or firefighters

• Employees of businesses located in Malden

• Households with children attending Malden schools (including METCO students)

• Homeless households who were displaced from Malden and are temporarily housed in another community

To claim local preference, applicants must provide documentation (such as a utility bill, lease, or employment verification). No more than 70% of the available units will be set aside for applicants who qualify under the local preference category.

Yes. Down payment assistance may be available for eligible buyers. East Cambridge Savings Bank is the preferred lender for this project and can provide additional information about available programs and financing options.

All applicants will receive a confirmation email once their completed application has been received. You will also receive a letter stating whether your application is eligible to be entered into the lottery. This letter will include the date, time, and location of the lottery, or an online link if it is held virtually.

If your application is not eligible, you will receive a rejection notice explaining the reasons for ineligibility.

The lottery is scheduled for October 21st. Further details, including time and format, will be posted on this website as they become available.

No, attendance is not required. All applicants will be notified of the lottery results and informed of their position in the selection order after the lottery takes place.

You’ll be able to move in once construction is complete and you’ve officially closed on your home. We expect construction to be completed November 2025 and our goal is to have all homes ready for occupancy by the end of the year.

Yes, once you purchase your home, you can sell it at any time. However, there are important affordability restrictions tied to the deed that apply based on how long you’ve owned the property:

• Years 0–15: You must sell the home at a restricted price to an income-eligible buyer, in accordance with the deed restrictions.

• Years 15–30: You may sell the home at market value, but 50% of the equity earned must be shared with the City of Malden.

• After Year 30: All deed restrictions are removed, and you may sell the home freely.

Please note: From years 0 to 30, the City of Malden holds a right of first refusal, meaning the city may choose to purchase the home before it is offered to the general public.