Buying a house in the country shouldn’t be difficult, and neither should be building or repairing it. USDA Rural Development has the Housing and Community Facilities Program (HCFP) to help homebuyers and homeowners not only buy homes, but build new ones, as well. There are also programs for improving and repairing existing houses.

This time around, we’ll look at self-help, repair and improvement options from the HCFP.

- Click here for the first part of this article

Mutual Self-Help Housing Program (Section 523)
This program makes homes affordable by allowing homeowners to work on the houses themselves. Homeowners pay less for their home, but are required to complete 65% of the construction.
Under this arrangement, local government offices or non-profit organizations supervise groups of 5-12 homeowners. The group members help each other finish their homes, moving in only when all the homes are completed. Homeowners under this self-help program generally apply for a direct loan as well.

Home Repair Loan and Grant Program (Section 504)
When families with very low income need to repair their homes, the Home Repair Loan and Grant Program presents loans and grants for renovation. This program can also be used to adapt homes for people who have special needs and disabilities.

Homeowners who are at least 62 years old qualify for home improvement grants. Low-income families or individuals can receive loans with a 1% annual interest rate from the HCFP.

Through these programs, Rural Development fulfills its goal of financially helping rural individuals, communities and businesses. Their aim is to strengthen rural America for global competition, with the communities able to support themselves in these changing times.

For more information, please contact local government offices with USDA departments.

Are you looking for ways to add to your home budget? Fill up the box above and find out if there are grants that apply to you!