Homeowner Renovation Program

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The Homeowner Renovation Program provides grants to homeowners who complete interior and exterior improvement projects that increase the value and functionality of their homes. Households are eligible for reimbursements for interior and exterior projects such as kitchen renovations, bedroom/bathroom reconfigurations, roofing, siding, etc. This program aims to help retain homeownership, build wealth, and improve the quality, accessibility, and appeal of housing in Syracuse neighborhoods.

Eligible homeowners can get between 40% - 60% of their project costs reimbursed, up to $90,000.

Program Flyer(PDF, 410KB)

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

 

How it Works

Step 1.Get in Touch

Fill out an Interest Form and tell us about your project idea. We'll reach out to schedule a brief phone call with you to talk more about your project.

Interest Form

*Call SHSC at 315-448-8621 to request a paper form.

Step 2.Complete a Home Inspection

Meet with SHSC staff to complete a home inspection. During the inspection, we will look at your proposed project area and identify any other structural or health/safety issues that may need to be addressed.

Step 3.Apply for the Program

Submit your official application, including your project scope(PDF, 264KB), budget, quotes for project work, insurance information, deed and mortgage information, and income documentation (if applicable).

Step 4.Complete Your Closing

Attend your closing for program funding, where you will sign program agreements.

Step 5.Complete Your Project

Get to work on your project! Save receipts for project costs and take photos before and after your project is complete.

Step 6.Get Reimbursed

Once your project is complete, submit a reimbursement request and pick up your check.

Eligibility Overview

This is a summary of eligibility requirements. Read the Homeowner Renovation Program Guide(PDF, 1MB) and Program Policies(PDF, 793KB) for a complete list of requirements and policies.

Eligible Properties

  • Properties must be in the Far Westside – Tipperary Hill or Salt Springs neighborhoods.  
  • Owner-occupied and rental properties are eligible.
  • Real estate taxes, water bills, and outstanding city fines must be paid.

 

Eligible Homeowners

  • Must be the owner of the property.
  • Has not participated in the Homeowner Renovation Program within the last five (5) years.

Eligible Projects

  • All projects must include at least TWO exterior components.
  • Critical life safety issues must be included in project scope if present.

 

Project Ideas

Use the table below for examples of common projects homeowners may wish to pursue through the program. Note that this list is non-exhaustive, and other types of improvements may be eligible. Contact us if you have further questions about your project.

Eligible Project Types

Interior:

  • Add modern upgrades or change your floor plan to improve functionality or accessibility
  • Upgrade major mechanical systems with energy efficient systems
  • Upgrade your bathroom or add another
  • Renovate your kitchen
  • Finish your basement

Exterior:

  • Paint or re-side your house
  • Repair or replace driveways, front walkway, service walkways
  • Redo your landscaping
  • Upgrade or replace windows or entry doors

Apply Online

Step 1.Check Your Eligibility

Step 2.Submit Interest Form

Click on the link below to access the interest form. Once we review it, we'll reach out to you to schedule a brief phone conversation. If you require assistance with online access or have questions about your application, please contact us.

Interest Form

*Call SHSC at 315-448-8621 to request a paper interest form. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does SHSC have a list of approved contractors or can I choose my own?

A: Homeowners choose their own contractors to work with.

Q: What if I can't get three quotes for my project?

A: We require documentation of three demonstrated attempts to secure quotes from contractors. For each contractor, make sure to document their name, contact information, the date that you contacted them, and whether they gave you a quote or not.

Q: How long does the process take to get approved?

A: Due to current application volume, there is an approximately two- to three-month waiting period to get approved for the program.

Q: If I need permits for my project, am I responsible for applying for them or does my contractor do this?

A: Homeowners are responsible for securing all permits for their project. Contractors are allowed to apply for permits for the homeowner, but this is not typical as it is usually outside of the contractor's scope of work.

Q: What should I expect during the home assessment? Do I need to prepare anything?

A: During the home assessment, our staff will do a health and safety check on the interior and the exterior of the home. Please note that photos will be taken during the home assessment in order to have record of the condition of various areas of the home. Please let our staff note if you have any concerns before or at the time of your home assessment. You do not need to prepare anything for the home assessment, other than showing our staff around your home and around your project area.

Click here to view form.

Contact Us

Phone

315-448-8621

Email

SHSC@syr.gov

Location

One Park Place
300 South State Street, Suite 700
13202
View Map

Interest Form

View Interest Form

*Call SHSC at 315-448-8621 to request a paper interest form.

Program Guide & Policies

 

Boundary Area Maps

Related Information

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