The homeowner rehabilitation program provides
assistance to low-income homeowners who lack the resources to make
necessary repairs to their homes. Assistance can be used for reimbursement
of costs for rehabilitation, which includes the following: applicable
codes, standards or ordinances, rehabilitation standards, essential
improvements, energy-related improvements, lead-based paint hazard
reduction, accessibility for disabled persons, repair or replacement
of major housing systems, incipient repairs and general property
improvements of a non-luxury nature, site improvements and utility
connections.
MFA relies on nonprofits, housing authorities,
and local governments to administer the homeowner rehabilitation
program. Funds are awarded through an RFP/Application process and
proposals are reviewed and evaluated by several committees, and
approved by the MFA Board. MFA has also reserved funds for the Reservation
Rehabilitation program to provide loans to homeowners on a house-by-house,
first-come, first-served basis.
Sub-recipients of homeowner rehab funds, design
programs to fit the needs of their individual jurisdictions. The
role of sub-recipients is to administer the rehabilitation program
from initial marketing activities to completion of the rehabilitation
and securing loans. Agencies are responsible for publicizing and
taking applications, qualifying applicants, determining income eligibility,
determining ownership, guaranteeing that work is properly inspected
and completed, insuring that properties meet all code, construction
standards and HQS regulations, and adherence to all HOME funding
and Lead Based Paint Requirements. Agencies are also responsible
for securing due on sale, refinance or transfer or amortizing, low
interest loans for participants. The program is available statewide
excluding the cities of Albuquerque and Las Cruces. Properties
located on Native American Trust Lands are eligible to apply for
the Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Program.
