City Provides Home Repair Loan Program for Low-Income Homeowners

The City of Pasadena has introduced the Home Enhancement Loan Program (HELP) to assist low-income single-family homeowners in making necessary repairs and rehabilitations to their homes. The program, funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through the HOME Investment Partnership ACT, provides 20-year loans up to $100,000 with zero interest and deferred payments during the term.

Eligible applicants must have a household income not exceeding 80% of the area median income and must reside within Pasadena city limits. The property must be an owner-occupied single-family home. Loans are non-assumable, requiring repayment if the property is sold, refinanced with cash out, or transferred.

The HELP program prioritizes repairs that address state and local code violations, health and safety improvements, major systems efficiency, accessibility enhancements, and energy efficiency upgrades. Luxury additions like pools and spas are not eligible under the program.

Contractors selected for the projects must have proper licensing, insurance, and a City of Pasadena business license. Applicants will undergo a pre-screening process, including a credit check and income verification, and projects will be managed by a city-contracted Project Manager to ensure compliance with program guidelines and standards.

Upon completion, loans will be recorded as silent loans on the property’s title, repayable at the end of the term or upon transfer of the property. The program underscores Pasadena’s commitment to preserving and enhancing its housing stock while ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents.

For more information on the HELP program, interested homeowners can register for a virtual community workshop scheduled for Wednesday, June 5, at 6 p.m. To register, visit https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_7zq1XKHURrKGV0ilMDP6iQ#/registration.

The application window for the program will be open from June 10th to July 12th.

For more information about the program, visit CityOfPasadena.net/RehabHELP.