Lok Housing Finance Corporation Ltd. (LHFCL) was a National Housing Bank (NHB) promoted housing finance company focused on providing affordable housing finance solutions to low and middle-income (LMI) families in India. Established in 1997, LHFCL aimed to address the significant housing shortage in the country, particularly among the economically weaker sections and lower-income groups. Its operations primarily centered around Tier II and Tier III cities, recognizing the underserved nature of these markets. LHFCL distinguished itself through its specialized approach to understanding and catering to the unique financial needs of its target demographic. Traditional lending practices often posed barriers for LMI families due to a lack of formal income documentation, credit history, and collateral. LHFCL developed innovative assessment methodologies and tailored loan products to mitigate these challenges. These included considering informal income streams, alternative credit scoring models, and flexible repayment schedules. The company offered a range of housing finance products, including loans for purchase, construction, and renovation of homes. Understanding the financial constraints of its borrowers, LHFCL also provided assistance with property documentation and other related processes, streamlining the homeownership journey. A crucial aspect of their business model was the focus on small-ticket loans, making homeownership more accessible to a wider segment of the population. LHFCL collaborated with various stakeholders, including government agencies, developers, and NGOs, to promote affordable housing initiatives. They actively participated in government-sponsored schemes aimed at providing subsidized housing to eligible beneficiaries. This collaborative approach strengthened their reach and impact in the affordable housing sector. Despite its initial success and positive social impact, LHFCL faced financial difficulties and operational challenges in later years. Increased competition from other housing finance companies, coupled with the economic downturn, led to a decline in asset quality and profitability. In 2013, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) revoked LHFCL’s certificate of registration, effectively prohibiting it from operating as a housing finance institution. While the company ceased operations, its contribution to the affordable housing landscape in India remains noteworthy. LHFCL’s innovative lending practices and customer-centric approach served as a valuable learning experience for other players in the sector. The company demonstrated the viability of serving the LMI segment with specifically designed financial products and emphasized the importance of understanding the unique challenges faced by this demographic. The legacy of LHFCL lies in its pioneering efforts to promote financial inclusion and make homeownership a reality for underserved communities. Its experience highlighted the critical need for sustainable business models and effective risk management in the affordable housing finance sector. Subsequent initiatives and policies have incorporated lessons learned from LHFCL and other similar institutions, contributing to the ongoing development of a more inclusive and accessible housing finance system in India.