Housing rehabilitation funding applications open Feb. 20

Southwest Nebraska Community Betterment (SWNCBC) has received funding through the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (NDED) to establish an Owner Occupied Housing Rehabilitation Program. 

Eligible homeowners may receive assistance to make structural, mechanical, electrical, weatherization and plumbing improvements to their homes.  

Who is eligible?

There are certain eligibility requirements, including income, assets, and homeownership. Homes must be located within the incorporated city limits of Grant, Madrid, Elsie and Venango. 

Mobile homes and rental properties are not eligible for participation in the program. 

The following household income limits are set at 100 percent of the area median income (AMI) in Perkins County: 

1 Person-—$48,700

2 Person—$55,600

3 Person—$62,600

4 Person—$69,500

5 Person—$75,100

6 Person—$80,700

7 Person—$86,200

8 Person—$91,800

Does it have to be repaid?

Low- to Moderate- Income households will qualify for a 100 percent forgivable loan, which is forgiven after 10 years if the owner does not move, sell or rent their property within the 10-year affordability period.

What repairs are ELIGIBLE?

Eligible repairs include:

• Structural—foundation, roof, etc. 

• Mechanical—furnace, air conditioning, water heater  

•Electrical —wiring, fuse boxes 

• Plumbing  

• Weatherization—windows, doors, insulation, siding, etc.  

• General maintenance—kitchens, bathrooms, etc.  

• Handicapped accessibility— ramps, bathrooms, etc. 

• Safety or code deficiencies 

• Lead-based paint mitigation 

What repairs aren’t ELIGIBLE? 

Repairs and additions that are NOT eligible include:

• Garages and outbuildings 

• Driveways and sidewalks 

• Window air conditioning units 

• Fireplaces 

• Decks and patios  

• Landscaping and fences 

• Jacuzzis, hot tubs and spas 

• Kitchen appliances  

• Reimbursement for repairs not completed by the program. 

How much is available?

The maximum financial assistance per household will be limited to $25,000. This limit unfortunately may exclude certain homes from participating in the program. For example, if a home will not meet basic standards after injecting $25,000 in assistance, then the home will not be eligible for the program.

Apply

Applications will only be accepted from Feb. 20 to March 22, 2019. Applications received or dated prior to Feb. 20, 2019 will not be eligible. Funds are limited and will be awarded on a first-ready, first-served basis.

Applications can be picked up at SWNCBC, 115 W 3rd Street in Grant. Applications are also available online at www.southwestne.com. For more information call308-352-4338 or email swncbc@gpcom.net