Texas USDA Rural Development has announced funding is available for the purpose of repairing homes in eligible rural areas. The funds are available through Rural Development's 504 Home Repair loan and grant program.
The program is available to low income recipients to make essential repairs to modernize and repair homes, and to remove health and safety hazards. Most repairs completed under the program are for roof, window and door replacements, as well as electrical, plumbing and air conditioning upgrades as well as other repairs needed to increase the home’s energy efficiency and overall comfort and quality. Renovations to make a home wheelchair or handicap accessible are also considered.
To qualify for the program, applicants must own their home, and fall within Rural Development’s income guidelines, defined as below 50 percent of the area median income and unable to obtain affordable credit elsewhere. Homeowners, at least 62 years old, may qualify for a grant. Grant funding up to $7,500 is limited and many times repairs will be funded with a combination of loan and grant. One percent loans up to $20,000 will be on a repayment term of up to 20 years and will require low monthly payments.
Further information on the program is available by visiting USDA's web site at http://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/tx. For local information, verification of area eligibility and application assistance, determine your local office by visiting http://www.rd.usda.gov/contact-us/state-offices/tx or call the Texas State Office at (254)742-9770.
USDA, through its Rural Development mission area, administers and manages housing, business and community infrastructure and facility programs through a national network of state and local offices. Rural Development programs are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America. For information on this and other USDA Rural Development programs in Texas, visit http://www.rd.usda.gov/tx.