Binghamton Home Grants You Shouldn’t Miss
Binghamton Home Grants You Shouldn’t Miss securing the right funding can transform an aging house into a modern haven. Binghamton homeowners have access to an array of Binghamton home improvement grants designed to revitalize properties, bolster safety, and enhance energy efficiency. Whether you need a new roof, a furnace upgrade, or accessibility modifications, these grant programs offer vital financial support. Dive into this comprehensive guide to discover the top grants available, their unique benefits, and how you can apply to breathe new life into your home.
1. Targeted Home Improvement Program (T-HIP)
Overview
The New York State Targeted Home Improvement Program (T-HIP) is a pilot initiative aimed at critical home repairs in low- to moderate-income neighborhoods. In 2024, Binghamton received a $5 million allocation to aid roughly 135 homeowners through nonprofits First Ward Action Council and Home HeadQuarters.
Key Benefits
- Up to $40,000 per unit for essential repairs
- Covers roofing, structural fixes, accessibility improvements, code compliance, and utility system upgrades
- Emphasizes safety and longevity
Eligibility
- Must reside in zip codes 13904 or 13905
- Owner-occupant of a 1–4 unit property
- Household income ≤ 80% of Area Median Income (AMI)
How to Apply
- Contact First Ward Action Council at (607) 772-2850
- Or reach Home HeadQuarters at (800) 724-4330 or [email protected]
- Prepare documents: proof of income, proof of ownership, and property condition photos
2. AHC Home Improvement Grants
Overview
Administered by First Ward Action Council, the AHC program provides substantial funds for major system repairs—such as HVAC, roofing, and structural reinforcements—focusing on long-term resiliency rather than cosmetic enhancements.
Key Benefits
- Grants for large-scale repairs: roofs, heating systems, plumbing, and electrical code updates
- No repayment required
Eligibility
- Broome County homeowners of any age
- Income-based qualification (low to moderate income)
How to Apply
- Call First Ward at (607) 772-2850 to request an application
- Submit income verification and a list of needed repairs
3. RESTORE Emergency Repair Grants
Overview
The RESTORE program reserves up to $10,000 in emergency grants for urgent home repairs. A lifeline for seniors and disabled homeowners, it tackles health and safety hazards without delay.
Key Benefits
- Quickly addresses critical issues: heating failures, electrical hazards, plumbing emergencies, structural risks
- Grants up to $10,000, no repayment
Eligibility
- Age 60+ or disabled
- Greatest need prioritized
How to Apply
- Contact First Ward Action Council for details on the next funding cycle
- Provide documentation of the emergency repair need
4. Access to Home Program
Overview
Also managed by First Ward Action Council, Access to Home offers categorical grants for accessibility-focused modifications: ramps, lifts, and bathroom remodels that comply with ADA standards.
Key Benefits
- Grant funding for wheelchair ramps, widened doorways, ground-floor bathrooms, and chair lifts
- Separate tiers for Medicaid recipients and veterans
Eligibility
- Income-based; varying tiers for general, Medicaid, and veteran households
- Applicants of any age
How to Apply
- Reach out to First Ward at (607) 772-2850 for an intake appointment
- Submit proof of disability or veteran status if applicable
5. NYSERDA EmPower+ Weatherization
Overview
NYSERDA’s EmPower+ program delivers energy-efficiency upgrades to income-eligible New Yorkers. Broome County residents can reduce utility bills and carbon footprints through this initiative.
Key Benefits
- Free energy assessments and upgrades: insulation, air sealing, lighting, HVAC tuning, and appliance replacement
- No upfront costs; funding cannot reimburse past work
Eligibility
- Must qualify for HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program)
- Households with high energy usage; renters eligible with owner participation
How to Apply
- Call NYSERDA at 1-877-NYSMART (1-877-697-6278)
- Complete an application via local Office for Aging (OFA)
6. Outer Comstock 1% Home Improvement Loan
Overview
In the vibrant Outer Comstock neighborhood, Home HeadQuarters partners with local associations to offer low-interest loans for interior and exterior improvements.
Key Benefits
- Up to $10,000 at 1% interest over 7 years
- Funds aesthetic and structural upgrades: siding, windows, decks, and minor code compliance
Eligibility
- No income requirements
- Must reside in the Outer Comstock vicinity as a primary homeowner
How to Apply
- Visit Home HeadQuarters’ website and navigate to “Outer Comstock Program”
- Submit proof of residency and project estimates
7. NYS Resilient Retrofits 50/50 Loan/Grant
Overview
As climate volatility increases, the Resilient Retrofits program equips homeowners to mitigate flood and weather damage via a combined low-interest loan and matching grant.
Key Benefits
- Up to $50,000: 50% loan at 1% interest for 5–10 years, 50% deferred grant forgiven at term’s end
- Eligible work: flood barriers, foundation sealing, energy-efficiency upgrades, electrification
Eligibility
- Households ≤ 120% AMI
- Primary residences in flood-vulnerable zones or needing resilience improvements
How to Apply
- Complete the application through Home HeadQuarters ([email protected])
- Provide flood risk documentation and contractor bids
8. USDA Single-Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants
Overview
The USDA Section 504 program offers direct government assistance for health-, safety-, and modernization-related repairs in rural areas, including parts of Broome County.
Key Benefits
- Loans up to $40,000 at 1% interest for 20 years
- Grants up to $10,000 for seniors (62+) to remove health and safety hazards
- Combined assistance up to $50,000
Eligibility
- Home must be in USDA-defined rural area
- Income limits apply; grants limited to those 62+
How to Apply
- Contact your local USDA Rural Development office
- Complete Form RD 3550-1 and accompanying certifications
9. Broome County Weatherization & Home Repair
Overview
Broome County Office for Aging publishes a bi-annual guide covering multiple programs, including weatherization and minor home repairs for low-income seniors.
Key Benefits
- Minor repairs labor-only (homeowner supplies materials)
- Weatherization services: insulation, draft sealing, heating system tune-ups
- Free for eligible seniors and disabled homeowners
Eligibility
- Age 60+ or disabled
- Income-based for weatherization; service area restrictions apply
How to Apply
- Download the OFA guide or call (607) 778-2411
- Submit a simple application form
10. Homeowner Loans & Grants at Home HeadQuarters
Overview
Beyond grants, Home HeadQuarters offers various loan and grant combos for climate-ready and general home improvement projects.
Key Benefits
- 50/50 loan/grant for flood mitigation and energy upgrades
- Access to SHARP-style small grants for emergency repairs (exterior/interior)
- Neighborhood-specific loan programs
Eligibility
- Varies by program; typically income and location-based
- No minimum credit score for Resilient Retrofits
How to Apply
- Visit www.homehq.org/homeowner-loans-grants
- Explore each program’s application package
Tips for a Successful Grant Application
- Gather Documentation Early
Prepare proof of income, homeownership, residence, and contractor estimates before applying. - Prioritize Repairs
List urgent health and safety upgrades first to align with most grant objectives. - Partner with Local Nonprofits
Agencies like First Ward Action Council and Home HeadQuarters provide application assistance and project oversight. - Maintain Clear Communication
Keep housing agencies and grant administrators updated on project progress and any hurdles. - Know Deadlines
Many grants are first-come, first-served. Submit applications promptly when funding opens.
The tapestry of Binghamton home improvement grants we’ve explored offers something for every homeowner—from life-saving accessibility ramps to energy-saving weatherization and resilience upgrades against climate threats. These programs represent a collective endeavor to maintain Binghamton’s housing stock, bolster neighborhood vitality, and safeguard family homes.
Applying for grants may seem daunting, but the payoff—enhanced safety, reduced energy bills, and increased property value—is well worth the effort. Embrace these funding opportunities, and unlock the potential of your Binghamton home today.