Home improvement grants are an incredible but often underused way for people to get some help toward improving their place of living.
Federal housing authorities issuing grants to qualifying persons don’t mind helping these persons update their house or make repairs. They do, however, have a few guidelines and these guidelines have time limits.
For example, work on the house must begin within thirty days of the agreement and must not pass a deadline. Architect fees and contractor draws are included in these home improvement grants, as well. For condo owners, the rules are a little different, as are those wishing to move an existing structure to another location.
But for those improving their home, there are specific allowances. Here is a non exhaustive list, make sure to contact your local or federal housing grants office to get the complete list.
Home Improvement Grants: Structure of the House
Siding or roofing
To repair damage from storms, to update the structure for resale value or to match the appearance of neighboring homes.
Build-ons
To add a conjoined carport, decking or patio to update the house and improve its value.
Second floors
Or add bathrooms, finished basements or skylights to an existing structure.
Termites
To repair damage done by termites and other pests, and to prep the house to prevent such pests’ return.
Home Improvement Grants: Inside The House
Lead-based paint removal
To remove a serious health hazard and upgrade the look inside the structure.
Flooring
Hardwood floors, tile and carpet. To update the structure or to replace aged flooring.
Windows
Add energy-efficient windows to improve the look and efficiency of the structure.
Insulation
And caulking, weatherstripping, new doors, solar energy systems.
Kitchen renovation
Built in appliances for modernization and improved function.
Revitalizing
Major systems, such as electrical wiring, plumbing and heating/air conditioning.
Home Improvement Grants: Outside The House
Septic
Repair damage from, or update to prevent such damage from, an existing septic system or replace all together.
Disabled access improvements
Add ramps, build railings and modify indoors access for the disabled in wheelchairs.
Landscaping
Clear property and improve its appearance for submission to neighborhood guidelines and to upgrade the house.
Drainage
Repair and upgrading of property drainage is allowable.
Home Improvement Grants: Other House Improvements
Pool
The repair of an existing swimming pool is allowed.
Bringing the house up to code
If the structure is that far gone, bringing it up to code is required.
With regard to home improvement grants, it’s not always about the economy. Sometimes it’s about a family legacy, left in a will, which needs to be updated and upgraded. Other times, when it is about the economy, it’s simply what is best affordable. Still at other times, it’s an investment property. In any instance, grantors such as HUD and FHA stand ready to help, with easily understandable guidelines and answers to any questions recipients of home improvement grants might have.
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