Owner Occupied Rehab Program
The Minor Repairs Program for Homeowners is suspended until further notice. Please continue to visit the Housing Programs page for updates on available assistance programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Owner Occupied Rehab Program?
The Osceola County Owner Occupied Rehab Program is designed to assist eligible homeowners with necessary repairs to improve occupant safety and well-being, and/or contribute to the structural integrity and preservation of their owner-occupied home.
Who is eligible to apply?
Any individual or household who meet the following criteria:
- Household income is less than or equal to 120% of median income adjusted for family size for Osceola County.
- Owners must obtain education class certificate.
What are other eligibility requirements as it relates to the property?
Any property that meets the following criteria:
- The property must be located in Osceola County.
- First mortgages, property taxes and/or assessments must be current.
- Property may not have any existing subordinate mortgage, or any liens secured with the property other than the 1st mortgage.
- There must not be any judgments or liens against the property other than the mortgage.
- The property must have a useful life of not less than fifteen 15 years to qualify.
Do I need to attend any educational class?
Yes. A three (3) hour financial education class is required to receive assistance.
How do I apply for the Osceola County Owner Occupied Rehab Program?
You must do a telephone intake interview by calling the Human Services Division at (407) 742-8400.
Do I need to occupy the house that I need to rehabilitate?
Yes. The house must be occupied by its owner.
Can I repair my swimming pool with this program?
No. Only repairs that correct substantial code violations, improve health, safety and well-being, or contribute to the structural integrity and preservation of the unit.
Can I repair my mobile home?
No, SHIP funds may not be used to repair mobile homes or manufactured housing.
Can I choose my own contractor?
Typically, the SHIP program uses local contractors selected by the program for owner occupied rehab services. However, if the current contractors have limited availability or have reached their maximum number of active projects, eligible applicants may submit up to three contractors of their choice. The SHIP program will then vet these contractors to ensure they meet the program’s requirements.
Who will inspect my home?
Each home is inspected by a county building inspector. In some instances, a private home inspector may be contracted for inspection services.
Will I have to move in order for repairs to be made?
Not necessarily. Only in extreme cases might you be asked to temporary move out of your home.
Who pays for temporary relocation?
The Osceola County SHIP Program does not pay for temporary relocation. It is the applicant’s responsibility to arrange temporary accommodations throughout the duration of the project.
What if my home is beyond repairs?
On a case by case basis, a home that is beyond repairs may qualify for additional assistance to replace the existing home.
Will a lien be placed against my house if I receive this assistance?
Yes, if the assistance provided is $1,501 or more. If the assistance provided is $1,500 or less, there will be no lien placed against the house.
If I receive assistance over $1,501, how long will the lien be placed against my house?
It depends on the total amount of assistance provided;
- $1,501 - $15,000: 5-year lien period
- $15,001 - $30,000: 10-year lien period
- $30,001 - $115,000: 15-year lien period
Do I have to pay the money back?
Not if you comply with all of the requirements of the program. You will have to pay the money back if any of the following happens during the term of the lien period:
- Home is sold.
- Subordination requirements are not met including taxes and insurance.
- Title is transferred.
- Home ceases to be the primary residence of the recipient.
- Property taxes and insurance is not paid annually.