Rural Development Can Help with Essential Repairs

Low-income homeowners in rural communities can take advantage of a USDA Rural Development program to make repairs to essential parts of their home.

Trudy Teter is a single-family housing state loan specialist and she said the 504 program is always their most under-utilized.

“Make essential repairs, repair safety and health hazards, also do home weatherization, utility hook ups, home improvements, modernization, so it can do many things.”

The program has grants for homeowners who meet the income requirements and are 62 years of age and older, but it also has low-interest loan options for other repairs.

Teter said it’s important that people in rural communities have access to the funding for the basics.

“They can reach out to us to get those repairs made so that they have the essential needs water, sewer, power and roof.”

For income and property value requirements, or for more on the program, visit the USDA's Rural Development website for Washington State.

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