USDA Money Available For Overton Home Owners Needing Repairs

Eligible residents of Overton County can get up to $50,000 of loans and grants for home repairs through a USDA housing program.

Area Specialist Brittiny Smith said households that make less than $28,000 and can not obtain affordable credit can apply.

“The grant funds are for health and safety hazards only,” Smith said. “So, anything handicap accessibility or to make the house or sanitary. The loan funds can be cosmetic repairs. So, we can do painting. We can do cabinets.”

Smith said loans max out at $40,000 with a fixed interest rate of 1% over 10 or 20 years. Smith said only residents 62 and older can submit for the $10,000 of grant funding.

“If they are looking for home repair, this is a very affordable way to do it,” Smith said. “They can combine the two funds together to get the most out of their loan and grants to repair their home.”

Smith said applicants will need documents such as a photo I.D., proof of income and tax papers. Smith said applications are available at Livingston City Hall or the Cookeville USDA office at Foreman Drive.

“We have a 30 day maximum turn around, but right now since we are fully staffed, we are getting results out in about a weeks time,” Smith said.

Applications are available year round, but Smith said funding starts to dwindle as October approaches.