Athmar Park

Home Repair Assistance

Mar 02, 2005

by Laura E. Aldrete, AICP

As cold spells and snow sweep through Denver this winter and many homeowners find themselves in need of repairing their homes to get through the remaining cold months ahead, two programs administered by the Denver Urban Renewal Authority (DURA) could provide low-interest home improvement loans for eligible homeowners in the City and County of Denver.

One is the Single Family Rehabilitation Program, which provides loans for renovation and rehabilitation of major systems within a residence, such as roofing, heating, electrical, plumbing, insulation, gutters, steps, windows and doors. Qualified applicants, who must own and occupy the home, can obtain up to $25,000 in lowinterest loans. Two types of loans are available, with eligibility depending on the individual?’s income. One is a ?“pay back?” loan at a one percent interest rate, and the other is a deferred loan on which no payments are required, with the loan due only if the homeowner dies, sells the home, or ceases to occupy the property.

A second program, the Emergency Home Repair Program, provides low-interest deferred loans or grants to correct emergency situations such a sewer system failure, mechanical or electrical problems that pose a danger to residents, furnaces that are inoperable or are a hazard to occupants, leaking roofs that threaten habitability of the structure and inoperative hot water heaters. The Emergency Home Repair Program is for emergencies that would require homeowners to vacate their homes if left unattended, not general maintenance. Eligible homeowners can obtain up to $3,000 for an emergency repair.

Both programs are designed to assist low-income homeowners. If you think you may qualify, call 303-534-3872. Spanish-speaking staff are available.