By Town Crier Report

Since 1976, the city of Los Altos has provided home rehabilitation loans to eligible Los Altos residents through its Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program.

Funded through the federal Community Development Block Grant program, the program supplies low- and no-interest loans to income-eligible homeowners for home repairs to correct housing code violations, alleviate overcrowding, minimize potential fire hazards and improve health, safety, accessibility and home security conditions. Eligible needs include electrical and plumbing repairs, new flooring, heating and weatherization improvements, kitchen and bathroom remodels, painting, roof repair, room expansion or addition, structural reinforcement and repair of termite damage.

Program eligibility is based on federal income limits by household size. In order to qualify, a household’s annual income must not exceed 80 percent of the current median income in Santa Clara County, as determined by the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development.

For example, a family of four must have an annual income no greater than $74,250; a two-person household may not have an annual income in excess of $59,400.

Loans up to $80,000 are available to qualified homeowners; interest rates range from 0 percent to 6 percent. Loan repayment may be amortized or deferred for up to 20 years. All loans are secured by a Deed of Trust.

The Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program offers a practical solution for lower-income residents, particularly seniors and others on fixed incomes, faced with a list of costly home repairs. The program helps residents stay in their homes when they might otherwise be forced to sell, and contributes to the general safety and attractiveness of Los Altos neighborhoods.

The Santa Clara County Housing and Community Development Department administers the city’s program.

For more information or an application, call (408) 441-0261.