Homeowner Renovation Program

How it works

The Homeowner Renovation Program provides grants to homeowners who complete interior and exterior improvement projects that increase the value and functionality of their homes. The city says the program is intended to help retain homeownership, build wealth, and improve the quality, accessibility, and appeal of housing in Syracuse neighborhoods.

Applicants start by submitting an Interest Form. SHSC then schedules a brief phone call. Next, homeowners complete a home inspection with SHSC staff, who review the proposed project area and identify any structural or health/safety issues that may need to be addressed. The official application comes next and must include the project scope, budget, contractor quotes, insurance information, deed and mortgage information, and income documentation if applicable.

After application review, applicants attend a closing where they sign program agreements before starting work. Homeowners then complete the project, save receipts, and take before-and-after photos. Once the work is finished, they submit a reimbursement request and pick up their check.

What the money covers

The page gives examples of eligible projects, including:

• Kitchen renovations
• Bedroom/bathroom reconfigurations
• Roofing
• Siding
• Major mechanical system upgrades with energy efficient systems
• Bathroom upgrades or additions
• Basement finishing
• Exterior painting or re-siding
• Driveway and walkway repairs
• Landscaping
• Window or entry door replacement

The site also says homeowners choose their own contractors. If permits are required, the homeowner is responsible for securing them.

Amounts and matching

• Reimbursement covers 40% to 60% of project costs.
• Maximum assistance is $90,000.
• The page says the eligibility tool can determine which program tier and which level of assistance a home qualifies for, but the excerpt does not state the exact tier rules.

How to apply

1. Review the Homeowner Renovation Program Guide or use the Eligibility Check Tool.
2. Submit the Interest Form.
3. Complete the home inspection.
4. Submit the official application with all required documentation.
5. Attend the closing and sign program agreements.
6. Complete the work, then request reimbursement after the project is finished.

Timing and deadlines

The program is currently limited to residents in the Tipperary Hill - Far Westside and Salt Springs neighborhoods as part of Syracuse Housing Strategy work and recommendations.

The page says there is an approximately two- to three-month waiting period for approval due to current application volume. No formal application deadline or closing date is stated.