HARP: Homeowner Assistance & Repair Program

The City of Columbus is committed to supporting local homeownership. In response to the 2024 Housing Study, which identified several housing needs including maintenance of existing affordable housing stock, the Homeowner Assistance & Repair program was created. This program provides an opportunity for eligible homeowners to apply for grant funding up to $25,000 to fund needed home repairs and improvements. For those who meet the below outlined program criteria, this grant opportunity can be used for eligible activities such as roof & HVAC repairs and replacements, ADA modifications and more.

The aim of this program is to:

• Maintain existing low to moderate income housing stock in the city
• Support home ownership for low to moderate income families by making needed long term improvements to homes that often are avoided because of cost. A program for homeowners who may typically reside in a home under the $300,000 price point is optimal.

Program Details:

• Program Summary: provide no-cost long term improvements for homeowners who meet select threshold criteria. The application process, scoring, construction job scoping, contractor procurement, final inspection, payment documentation, and lien placements will all be handled by ARa. Per home investments have a maximum amount of $25,000.
• Threshold Criteria: earning at or below 120% of Area Median Income for Columbus, Indiana MSA; live within the city limits, own their home, have home insurance, not in a flood plain according to https://floodstandard.climate.gov/tool/.
• Eligible Activities: Home improvements in the program will focus on activities that do not disturb lead paint. Eligible activities under the program include roof repairs or replacements, HVAC repairs or replacements, ADA modifications leading to the threshold of the home, and water heater replacement. Radon tests and mitigation are also part of any homeowner selected for the program.
• Safety and Security: any homeowner in the program must agree to live in their home for at least 24 months or will be forced to pay back a pro-rated amount of the investment at the sale of their home. This requirement will be secured by placing a lien on the property.
• Application Process and Timing: Online application only. Demand will likely outstrip the supply of funds so funding will be awarded on a first come first served basis until program funds are allocated.
• Timing: This program is currently open to applicants; funds will continue to be expended for eligible activities until either the program maximum is reached or until December 15, 2026.

Income Requirements

Household Income: Must be at or below 120% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for Columbus, Indiana, which is figured according to: