Hillsborough County now offers forgivable loans for critical home repairs
Hillsborough County has opened applications for its Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Program. The scheme offers financial support to homeowners in unincorporated areas who struggle to afford essential repairs. Those eligible can access forgivable loans, with repayment only required if the property is later sold.
The programme targets low-to-moderate income residents who have lived in their single-family homes for at least two years. Common issues covered include leaky roofs, faulty plumbing, and broken heating or cooling systems. In extreme cases, where repair costs exceed half the home's value, the county may opt to demolish and rebuild the property instead.
Brenda Brackins, the county's affordable housing director, leads the initiative. She has seen firsthand how the programme changes lives by fixing critical housing problems. Applications are now open, with details and submission links available on the county's official website.
The forgivable loan structure means homeowners only repay funds if they sell their property. Repairs or rebuilds will depend on the severity of the issues and the home's assessed value. The county aims to help residents maintain safe and stable housing conditions through this ongoing support.
