This combines mandatory housing code enforcement, rehabilitation technical and financial assistance, public improvements, demolition and new construction. Repair estimates and contractor selection is free. Grants and loans help owners pay for major repairs such as furnace, plumbing, electrical, windows, roof, etc. All streets, sidewalks, curbs, sewers, lighting in the areas are improved where necessary. These neighborhoods are declining physically but have high owner occupancy levels and resident incomes sufficient to make investment in their housing.
Residents can secure the program benefits by circulating a petition in their neighborhood.
The Rental Rehabilitation Program offers financial assistance to rental property owners for the correction of housing code violations. Buyers agree to live in their house for at least five years to retain the entire grant amount without a repayment. There is a need for new affordable housing. Each home has three bedrooms, one and a half bathrooms, family room, full basement, two car garage, vinyl siding, landscaping and a concrete drive. These homes blend with the neighborhood architecture and bring new life to old neighborhoods.