News

Actions

Scottsdale could foot the bill for home upgrades as part of housing rehab program

Posted at 6:16 AM, Oct 04, 2017
and last updated 2017-10-04 12:20:44-04

Home repairs can be costly, especially when it comes to making a home energy efficient, beneficial to the environment and safe for the owner. 

That is why the city of Scottsdale said they are taking action and are offering to foot the bill for their low- or middle-income residents to make home repairs up to $65,000.

The Green Housing Rehabilitation Program has been functioning for about a year. However, the city tells ABC15 they want more people to take advantage of it.

The program is federally funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. To qualify, you must meet certain income requirements and have lived in your home for about a year.

Tina Chelle has lived in her Scottsdale home near 86th Street and McDonald Road for roughly 18 years. 

"This house was built in 1964," explained Chelle.

She loved its charm and location. But one day she knew she had to upgrade, not just the looks, but the very foundation of her home. 

"I found a lot of the insulation that was upstairs in the attic was deteriorating," Chelle said. But paying for it just was not an option financially for her. While doing research, she found Scottsdale's program and applied.

After being put on a waiting list, she was selected and set up with a licensed contractor assigned to her. In her case, it was Marcy Kostewa with South West Affiliated Builders Supply-AZ.

From there, a city Housing Rehab Specialist, like Chad Beougher, will come out and decipher what green upgrades need to happen. 

"This is a no interest loan," Beougher explained. "They pay nothing out of pocket, except for the actual construction cost." 

Beougher said the city will front green energy upgrades, like appliances, duct work, doors, windows, etc. 

"Three years after the completion date of the job, 50 percent of it is deferred or forgiven," Beougher said. "And the remaining 50 percent is not due until change of title." 

So, hypothetically, if you stay in the home, you will never have to pay it back. 

"They can stay in the home as long as they want and never have to pay that," Beougher explained. "It's never an obligation that's over their head. We don't drive around looking for open loans or anything like that." 

If you want to learn more or learn how to apply, visit the city's website.