Help for Homeowners

A USDA program can help homeowners make their homes decent and safe

A program from the United States Department of Agriculture can help rural homeowners get their homes back in shape.

Called Section 504 Loans and Grants, the funds are available to very low income families in certain areas for repairs and renovations of their present home.

"Basically the money can be used for anything that makes homes safe, decent or sanitary," says Wes Sparks, USDA community development manager. "We've installed plumbing in homes that didn't have it, replaced roofs and made homes handicapped accessible. About everything except landscaping and home additions is covered."

Loans are made at one percent up to 20 years. Homeowners over 62 may also be eligible for grants if they don't have the resources to repay the low-interest loan.

The family must own and live in the home where repairs are made. Parents who have a life-estate arrangement with their children are also eligible. If the home is sold, the USDA will reclaim the loan.

"The contract for the work is between the homeowner and the contractor," says Sparks. "We don't tell them they have to use a certain company. We do prefer the work be completed in 30 days unless it's a big job."

If you're interested, contact the local USDA Rural Development Office that serves your county for eligibility requirements

WEMC Member Henrietta Burney of Rutledge took advantage of the USDA Section 504 program to make some much-needed repairs to her home. Contractors installed storm windows and doors, re-roofed, painted the exterior, repaired exterior siding, doors and fascia and installed new gutters. "My home is so much warmer now," says Ms. Burney. "I'm not as scared now that I can close and latch my front door."

USDA Rural Development Offices

Barrow, Gwinnett: 770/536-0547 DeKalb, Rockdale: 770/957-1228 Walton, Greene, Morgan, Newton, Oconee: 770/267-8363 (Clarke County residents not eligible)