0% - DIRECT HOMEOWNER REHABILITATION LOAN PROGRAM

 The City of Altoona’s Department of Planning and Community Development administers a 0% Loan Program.  Loans will be offered to owner-occupied units located in the City of Altoona. Income limits vary according to family size.

 The Rehabilitation Process is as follows:

 The homeowner will apply for the City’s Direct Loan Program by contacting the Department of Planning and Community Development, which will then forward an application.  Once the completed application is received, along with appropriate documentation, Housing Rehab Staff and a Lead-based Paint Risk Assessor will conduct an inspection of the property with the homeowner.  Together they determine what work is to be done.

 The Housing Rehab Staff prepares a description of work and a cost estimate which the homeowner approves.  From this, the City draws up bid specifications.  When the homeowner approves these, they are placed for bid to approved local contractors who will visit your home in order to prepare their bids.  The bids are opened and reviewed.

 At this time the loan decision is made, taking into account the amount of rehabilitation, individual's ability to repay the loan, credit history, and value of the house after rehabilitation.  If the loan is approved, monthly payment, amount, and term of rehabilitation assistance are established.  Loan closing is then scheduled and all supporting papers are signed.

 Work begins and is inspected by the City as it progresses.  The City makes payments as called for in the contract.  When the work is completed, inspected, and approved by the Housing Rehab Staff and homeowner, final payment is made.

                PROGRAM ASSISTANCE                                        PHONE NUMBER

                        James Trexler                                                    949-2481