Application period open as of Sept. 1
Sarasota County residents are being invited to apply for assistance to purchase a home or make critical repairs to their existing homes through the State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) Program, county staff announced this week.
“Sarasota County has $1.7 million available through the Housing Enhancement and Redevelopment Office to support safe and affordable housing for income-eligible residents,” a news release points out.
The application period opened Tuesday, Sept. 1, on HEROSRQ.net,” the release notes. “Awards will be issued on a first-come, first-approved basis. Very low- and low-income residents are eligible to apply,” the release adds.
Two types of assistance are available, the release points out:
- Purchase Assistance — Eligible first-time home buyers “may receive up to $75,000 as a forgivable loan for the down payment, closing costs and/or gap assistance,” the release continues. Home buyers must be approved by a first-mortgage lender, who will apply to the program on their behalf.
- Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation — “Eligible homeowners may receive up to $100,000 as a forgivable loan for necessary home repairs, maintenance and modifications that improve the health, safety, and welfare of its occupants,” the release says. Assistance also may be used for accessibility improvements for those with disabilities. “Renovations that are solely aesthetic or cosmetic are not eligible,” it points out.
“Home affordability presents a challenge for communities across the country, including here in Sarasota County,” said Steve Hyatt, manager of the county’s Program Management Division, in the release. “We’re proud to provide these resources to income-qualifying residents who may benefit from these programs. We encourage those interested to review the requirements and apply for assistance if they believe they qualify,” he added.
Staff will be available to assist with applications at the locations below on the following dates from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the release notes:
- Jacaranda Library, standing at 4143 Woodmere Park Blvd. in Venice —Sept. 10, Sept. 24 and Oct. 8.
- Betty J. Johnson North Sarasota Library, located at 2801 Newtown Blvd. in Sarasota: Sept. 15, Sept. 29 and Oct. 13.
Priority will be given to those with special needs, the release points out. For more information, visit HEROSRQ.net, call 941-861-5336 or email SHIP@scgov.net.
The release does caution, “Please note that City of Sarasota residents are not eligible to apply as the City of Sarasota administers its own SHIP program.” City of Sarasota residents may find information about the city’s SHIP and other programs through the Office of Housing and Community Development at sarasotafl.gov.