The Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America (NACA) was founded in 1988 by the Boston Hotel Workers Union as the first housing trust fund initiative, evolving into a national non-profit organization dedicated to expanding homeownership access. Over 36 years, NACA has served approximately 3 million people and helped over 500,000 become homeowners through character-based lending practices that prioritize borrower circumstances over credit scores.
NACA's primary service is mortgage lending with distinctive terms: no down payment required, no closing costs or fees, no mortgage insurance premiums, and rates that don't factor in credit scores. As of April 2026, they offer fixed rates of 5.625% for 30-year mortgages, 5.125% for 20-year, and 5% for 15-year terms. They also provide HUD-approved housing counseling (30% of all HUD housing counseling nationally), hold "Achieve the Dream" multi-day events across the country to qualify borrowers, operate a member portal for document uploads and status tracking, and fight predatory landlords and corporate real estate investors through advocacy campaigns.
NACA distinguishes itself through character-based lending that explicitly does not consider credit scores, positioning themselves as an alternative to traditional mortgage lenders. They've made $20 billion in mortgage commitments and originated 75,000 NACA mortgages. Their mission explicitly targets closing the racial wealth disparity gap, serving low- to moderate-income people and communities of color historically excluded from homeownership. They combine lending with activism, volunteer opportunities (NACtivist program), and community organizing against predatory housing practices.
The main caveat is that NACA appears to operate primarily through multi-day "Achieve the Dream" events rather than year-round local offices, suggesting access may require travel or attendance at scheduled regional events. The Jackson, MS location referenced in the company name appears to be a subsidiary office, but the website emphasizes a national footprint with events scheduled in Arkansas, Wisconsin, Florida, and Connecticut. Prospective borrowers must become "NACA Qualified" through their event process before mortgage access.