Foreclosures are up nationwide, including in Westchester. If you face the possibility of foreclosure, turn to a specialized organization for information and counselling on how to keep your home. Find out about your rights and about foreclosure rescue scams. Learn more from our FAQs. Don't wait until it's too late to get help.

Even in good economic times, Westchester for decades has had a shortage of affordable housing. Under state law, the county has limited legal authority to actually build housing. But, it can assist and encourage the construction of housing by private developers and non-profit agencies through funding the land acquisition, helping with construction costs and some infrastructure expenses related to the housing development.

County Executive Andy Spano's policies and programs have resulted in creation or preservation of housing units, including the construction of workforce housing and housing for seniors. At the same time, the county government has used its resources to promote "green and smart" technologies that are innovative and protect our environment. Other efforts are geared to encouraging local governments to do their part to create and preserve housing.

A county-produced video titled Housing Alive showcases affordable housing throughout the county, and demonstrates how it blends in with and improves our communities. Find out what affordable housing is and if you meet the federal income eligibility standards for it.

Learn about our many housing programs and other resources to help tenants, landlords, developers and home buyers and owners, as well as people with special needs. Learn more about the laws that protect you from housing discrimination and programs to get rid of dangerous lead paint in your building.

Many of these programs are administered by the county's Planning Department.