The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development offers a program for accessibility related improvements to the homes of seniors. These improvements may include, among others, the installation of grab bars and railings, widening of doorways and installation of ramps. Home improvements such as these represent for many older people the key to remaining in their home and maintaining their independence.
The program provides zero percent interest, deferred loans for a term of 30 years or grants to finance accessibility improvements.
Eligible Applicants
- Be Maryland residents with at least one resident age 55 or older
- Generally must own and occupy the home to be renovated as their principal residence. Seniors living with relatives will be considered on a case by case basis
- Reside in a home that is structurally sound and free of health and safety hazards
- Not have any outstanding federal or state tax liens, open bankruptcy or foreclosure
- Meet income requirements
The household income cannot exceed 80% of the Statewide or Washington DC MSA median. If the senior resides in the home of a relative, eligibility is based on the income of all persons occupying the home as their primary residence.
Eligible Improvements
Funds may be used to pay for the actual costs of making the house accessible or functional for the resident. This may include but is not limited to: widening doorways, installation of accessible showers, ramps, grab bars, and lever handles. Additions to accommodate first floor bathrooms and laundry rooms will also be considered on a case by case basis.
Loan Amount and Term
The maximum loan amount will be up to 110 percent of the value of the property taking into account any superior mortgages. The loans will be offered for terms of up to 30 years and must be repaid upon sale, transfer or refinance of the property. All closing costs will be included in the loan.
Grants up to $25,000 are available to senior homeowners for needed accessibility modifications in cases where the applicant does not qualify for loan funding.
Submitting an Application
Accessible Homes for Seniors Application Form
Applications are available at local County Housing Offices or the
Maryland Access Point Agencies. Assistance in completing the application is available at the agency or an in-home appointment can be scheduled. Once the application is submitted, it will be processed by the department and the applicant will be contacted. For more information, you may call the Maryland Access Point agency listed for your county, the Maryland Department of Aging or the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development.
More Information
CONTACT: Special Loan Programs
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development
7800 Harkins Road, 3rd Floor, Lanham, MD 20706
E:
DHCD.SpecialLoans@maryland.gov
P: (301) 429-7409 | Toll Free (Maryland Only): 877-218-8101
TTY: 711 or 1-800-735-2258
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