Youngstown Residential Property Improvement Programs Press Release

City of Youngstown and 717 Credit Union Officially Open Funding Applications for Residential Property Improvement Programs

The programs will provide low interest loans and grant opportunities to Youngstown homeowners and landlords to make needed repairs and renovations, helping enhance neighborhoods across the city.

YOUNGSTOWN, OH – The City of Youngstown, in partnership with 717 Credit Union, is taking a significant step forward in its mission to promote affordable homeownership and neighborhood revitalization with the launch of the Residential Property Improvement Programs. That means applications for the Residential Façade Loan and Residential Façade Grant Program, and the Landlord Loan Program are now open.

The new initiative is supported by $5 million in funds from the American Rescue Plan Act and will assist homeowners in improving the exterior of their homes and give landlords an opportunity to update their properties by providing qualified candidates access to funding.

Interested homeowners can view qualification details and apply directly through 717 Credit Union at www.717cu.com/youngstown-residential-property-improvement-programs.

“Finding affordable pathways for homeowners and improving our neighborhoods are priorities of my administration, and with the help of 717 Credit Union we are seeing plans become reality,” said Youngstown Mayor Jamael Tito Brown. “The Façade Loan and Grant Programs not only serves as a critical vehicle for so many in our city to make needed improvements to their homes and increase the value in their homes, but it’s a step towards enhancing the perception of our neighborhoods and giving residents a level of pride.”

The Residential Loan and Grant Program offers qualifying homeowners low-interest loans of up to $10,000 at a 1% interest rate for five years, or a dollar-for-dollar match up to $10,000. These funds can be used for exterior improvements such as painting, window replacements, siding, and repairs to sidewalks, driveways, steps, and garages.

The Landlord Loan Program allows eligible landlords to apply for a five year, 2% interest loan for each repaired or renovated property. Each individual property cannot exceed $50,000, landlords applying for multiple properties cannot exceed $100,000 total. Projects using funds from the loan must address any current City of Youngstown code violations, if applicable.

“Mayor Brown and his administration have taken the lead in addressing Youngstown’s housing needs,” said John Demmler, President and CEO of 7 17 Credit Union. “The Youngstown Residential Property Improvement Programs are designed to enhance our communities by improving the quality of housing throughout the city.” Demmler added, “At 7 17 Credit Union, we believe that strong communities begin at home. By partnering with the City of Youngstown, we're giving residents and landlords the tools to reimagine what’s possible for their properties and, ultimately, their communities. We’re proud to be part of this important step forward.”

The Residential Façade Loan Program is part of the City of Youngstown’s broader $13 million housing initiative being administered by 717 Credit Union aimed at improving housing across the city, offering affordable financing options to homeowners and landlords for property improvements and developments.