Programs and Initiatives
Above all else, the South Dakota Native Homeownership Coalition strives to provide tangible programs and initiatives that empower people across South Dakota to take meaningful steps towards building a career and owning a home.
Down Payment Assistance Program
The Down Payment Assistance Program provides up to $10,000 to homebuyers who are clients of Coalition member organizations for down payment, closing costs, and other expenses related to mortgage financing.
Construction Internship Program
The Construction Internship Program connects building-trades students with local contractors on South Dakota Reservations, giving interns hands-on construction experience while helping contractors identify and train potential employees. The program also includes financial education and is designed to strengthen the local construction workforce, increase contractor capacity, and ultimately address the shortage of housing in Native communities.

Appraisal Institute
The Appraisal Institute delivers specialized training developed with the Coalition’s Appraiser Advisory Group and funded by Freddie Mac. The program provides participants with two weeks of in-person training, 75 hours of appraisal education, USPAP and trainee coursework, and support securing a supervisory placement. Participants can earn AQB-certified education, register as South Dakota appraisal trainees, and gain hands-on field experience as they begin a career in real estate appraisal.

NativeNestâ„¢
There are numerous challenges to overcome, when considering home values on tribal land… low transaction volume, limited comparable sales, large geography and limited appraiser availability all pose significant barriers to homeownership. The South Dakota Native Homeownership Coalition aims to help overcome these obstacles with the development of NativeNest™, a centralized system for recording residential sales and real estate transfers on tribal lands.
"Creating a Clear Path to Homeownership"
