Affected Properties Home Improvement Program

How it works

The City of Council Bluffs provides financial assistance and support to homeowners making repairs or improvements to their property. The city says it helps guide eligible homeowners through the process alongside qualified, licensed, professional contractors.

What the money covers

The program emphasizes exterior repairs and replacements, including:

• Windows
• Doors
• Roofs
• Gutters
• Painting
• Siding
• Porches
• Driveways
• Sidewalks
• Electrical
• Plumbing
• Mechanical systems, excluding air conditioning

Amounts and repayment

The city says rehabilitation projects are financed through forgivable, forbearance, and/or interest-free installment loans.

• Forgivable loans: depending on income, homeowners may be eligible for $10,000 or $15,000. These do not need to be repaid unless the homeowner sells or moves within five years of loan closing.
• Forbearance loans: repaid when the rehabilitated property is sold, transferred to someone other than the surviving spouse, or is no longer occupied by the borrower.
• Interest-free installment loans: 0% interest, with monthly payments. Terms range from 5 to 10 years, depending on the amount needed.

The city states that maximum loan assistance for all funding and programs is $24,950.

How to apply

The page directs applicants to complete an owner-occupied housing rehabilitation application through the city’s housing rehabilitation portal. The city also says an eligibility contact is available before applying.

Timing and waitlist

The city says there may be a waitlist to receive assistance.