Fix Up Fund

All information and application materials in PDF form in ENGLISH

All information and application materials in PDF form in SPANISH

Purpose

By offering a low-interest micro loan, our Fix-Up Fund Program helps households perform minor home repairs that would normally be a financial burden. We assist households with minor problems (e.g. roof leak) before they become big problems (e.g. roof collapse). Dealing with the issues early saves time and money for the homeowners. The Fix-Up Fund Program is intended to provide homeowners with an affordable solution to make their home a better, safer place to live.

Availability

Each applicant may apply for up to $4,000 in assistance under the Fix-Up Fund Program by submitting the attached application to the City of St. James. Homeowners will be required to sign paperwork ensuring the loan will be used for home repairs, sign a promissory note, provide an estimate for the work, and secure a building permit- if one is necessary for the scope of work. Loans may be provided to the extent funding is available in the Fix-Up Fund Program. Funds shall be paid back over a period of 3-year at an interest rate of 2.5%. Applicants are not eligible for subsequent Fix-Up Program funding until their loan is repaid in its entirety.

Applicant Eligibility

Loans are available to owners of single family homes, including Manufactured Homes constructed after 1978, located within the City of St. James (including persons who have a property interest in a home pursuant to a contract for deed). Additionally, owners of single family homes must verify that their household income (combined income of all persons living in the home over the age of 18), is not more than the Household Income Limits (80% of the Area Median Income) established for Watonwan County, Minnesota, reported annually by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The current year limits are listed at the bottom of this Policy. Applicant must reside in the home to be repaired for at least one year from the completion date of the approved work.

Eligible Uses for Fix-Up Fund Program

Fix-Up Fund can provide assistance with projects such as minor roof, siding and window repairs; minor masonry and foundation repair; plumbing, electrical, and mechanical system repairs or change-outs; accessibility improvements; and permits required in conjunction with performing eligible projects approved under this Program. Proposed improvements must conform to the City of St. James’ Building Code and Zoning Ordinance.

When Payment Made

Payment will be made upon approval of an application and successful execution of all required documents.

The City of St. James prohibits discrimination against any applicants of the Fix-Up Fund program because of race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable Federal and State Law.