Governor’s House Program: Affordable Homes in South Dakota

Governor's House: SDH Affordable Housing

The Governor’s House Program in South Dakota is a key part of the state's efforts to provide affordable housing. Started in 1996, Governor’s Houses are built by inmates at the Mike Dufree State Prison as part of an inmate training program. This allows the Governor's House Program to create economical homes that meet community needs.

So far over 3,300 governor's homes have been sold. The program has been successful in improving living standards and stability across the state.

 
Fact Box: Since 1996, The Governor's House Program has sold 3,300 affordable homes for low-to-moderate income families in South Dakota.
 

Key Takeaways:

  1. Affordability: The program provides homes at lower costs. This helps income-qualified buyers to own a home more easily.

  2. Customization: With eight different floor plans, buyers can find an option that fits their needs.

  3. Community Enhancement: The program provides stable housing options that help develop local rural areas in the state.

  4. Skill Development: Working with the Governor’s Inmate Training Program, it teaches inmates construction skills. These skills help them rejoin society and support South Dakota’s housing needs.

Find your area representative for more information.

What is the Governor's House Program?

The Governor’s House Program takes an active role in promoting affordable housing across South Dakota. It makes homeownership possible for low-to-moderate income families. Household income determines eligibility, with specific limits designed to help those most in need.

By offering affordable, high-quality homes, the program helps stabilize neighborhoods and foster community development. In rural areas, small towns become more appealing to current residents and new arrivals. This effort boosts local economies and improves the quality of life in smaller regions.

The program offers various house designs to suit different family sizes and needs. Options range from two-bedroom homes perfect for small families or retirees to larger three-bedroom homes. The program also offers slight customization, allowing buyers to choose whether the garage door is on the right or left, and to request accessibility features.

Take a virtual tour of a governor's house with a three-bedroom narrow lot setup.

Each design focuses on energy efficiency, which helps lower utility bills and makes these homes affordable to maintain. They use high-quality materials that need little maintenance. This makes them smart, long-term investments for homebuyers.

Download our brochure to get details on all standard amenities for your Governor's home.

How to Apply For a Governor's House

Applying for the Governor’s House Program is simple, letting future homeowners choose from eight different floor plans to meet their needs with ease. Whether you're a small family laying down roots, a retiree looking to downsize, or a growing family in need of more space, there's a design that works for everyone.

 
mother and daughter baking together
 

A Sustainable Future for South Dakota

The Governor's House Program is paving the way for future housing solutions that address both affordability and community development. Its success demonstrates how practical, accessible housing can improve lives and strengthen communities across the state.

If you're interested in learning more or purchasing a Governor's House, visit our website. Explore available floor plans, review eligibility criteria, and connect with an area representative to begin your journey toward affordable homeownership.

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