Home Improvement Program(HIP) News

“Andrea”, a low-income client facing several health challenges, sought assistance to renovate her aging single-family home. Unable to obtain a loan from a bank, Andrea reached out to HRI’s Home Improvement Program (HIP) after receiving a referral from a local fuel assistance program. HIP staff helped Andrea explore options to address her housing needs. Andrea considered a home sale and a reverse mortgage to access equity in her home, but after careful consideration, chose to renovate with a HIP loan. Andrea wanted to age in place and remain in the community that she knows and loves. HIP staff guided Andrea through the loan process, coached her about finances, and helped her to manage the contractors during construction. The result is a transformed home that includes an accessible bathroom, updated HVAC systems, and a relocated washer and dryer so she can safely do laundry. Although the total project cost exceeded $90,000, HIP staff leveraged funding from four partners. As a result, Andrea only needed a small low-interest, deferred loan from the HIP program. Now, Andrea enjoys a new, accessible living space without additional monthly costs.