A new microfinance program launched by Habitat for Humanity of Southeast Ohio will allow for homeowners in the region to make improvements to their houses with zero-interest for one year.

The program was created so that homeowners don’t have to rely on payday lenders to improve or repair their houses. 

“And also so that people don’t have to take out exorbitant amounts of money to pay for rent-to-own items like, you know, appliances and things like that,” said Kenneth Oehlers, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Southeast Ohio.

Improvement and repair needs include floor replacements, wheelchair ramp installments, window and door upgrades or replacements, appliance repairs and replacements and bathroom upgrades among many other options.

Projects, whether indoors or outdoors, will be capped at $1,500 and will be financed in the form of one-year, zero-interest mortgages. 

“It’s a program that’s open and available for the community so that they can continue to live and enjoy their homes and be able to get ahead in life,” said Oehlers. 

For residents of Muskingum, Perry and Morgan Counties, the program is funded by the United Way.

Qualified candidates must be home and property owners who make between 20 and 80 percent of the Area Median Income. 

“We’ve got enough money to do several microfinance loans,” said Oehlers. 

Further information about the program’s requirements can be found on the Habitat website here. 

Applications are currently open.