What is Greater Circle Living?

An initiative which aims to improve access to affordable housing, assist individuals in wealth building, reduce commute times and costs, and enhance quality of life by offering employees of eligible institutions an opportunity to live and work close to world class institutions and services. It also seeks to increase awareness of the incredible housing opportunities available in the area.

The program includes

  • Financial assistance
  • Training for home buyers
  • Help with the application process
  • E ducation on housing options
  • Assistance with budgeting/managing finances

Financial assistance is available on a first-come, first served basis. Families participating in GCL remain eligible for housing assistance programs offered by the City of Cleveland and some other agencies.

For program details and to view the application process please visit www.fairfaxrenaissance.org or www.universitycircle.org or call Fairfax Renaissance Development Corporation at 216-361-8400 or University Circle Inc. at 216-707-5019. Contact your employer’s Human Resources or Benefits office or visit your employer’s website to learn more about eligibility requirements.

How does it work?

Buy, Rent or Rehabilitate in Greater University Circle

Home Purchase

Greater Circle Living (GCL) offers a $5,000 forgivable loan for down payment and/or closing costs for the purchase of an owner occupied home by a fulltime employee of eligible nonprofit institutions in Greater University Circle (see map).

Loans are forgiven if the employee continues to work for a participating Greater University Circle institution and continues to occupy the residence for five years after the loan closes. Employees of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Museum of Art, and University Hospitals may be eligible for an additional $10,000 forgivable loan for down payment or closing costs on the purchase of an owner occupied home. Employees of Judson at University Circle may be eligible for an additional $5,000 forgivable loan for down payment or closing costs on the purchase of an owner occupied home.

Rental Assistance

GCL provides a one month rental payment up to $1,400 for employees who execute a one year lease in an approved rental unit. Open to eligible employees of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Museum of Art, and University Hospitals.

Exterior Home Repair

GCL provides up to $8,000 in matching funds for exterior renovations for employees who live in the district and are owner occupants. Employees must contribute a 25% match of the requested funds. Open to eligible employees of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Museum of Art, and University Hospitals.

*Greater University Circle includes all of Fairfax, Little Italy, University Circle and parts of Buckeye/Shaker, Glenville, Hough, and East Cleveland. Please view the map on our website www.fairfaxrenaissance.org to determine the geographic boundaries.

How do I apply?

Questions?

Call Fairfax Renaissance at 216-361-8400 or University Circle Inc. at 216-707-5019.