Brecksville joins Heritage Home Program 

by Dan Holland

Brecksville homeowners with properties 50 years or older can access low-interest loans and free renovation assistance through the Heritage Home Program, in partnership with the Cleveland Restoration Society.

Heritage Home Program Manager told Brecksville City Council last fall that homes do not have to be historic in nature to qualify for the program. Council members voted in December for Brecksville to become a participat-ing community in the program, which includes more than 40 other Northeast Ohio municipalities.

To qualify, the residence cannot be valued at more than $750,000, and the maximum owner household income must not exceed $77,760. Projects can include interior and exterior work, such as additions, basement waterproofing, HVAC upgrades, painting, insulation, kitchen and bath improvements, and masonry, window and roof repairs and replacements.

According to Prezenkowski, approxi-mately 2,290 homes in Brecksville would be eligible for the program, with nearly half of all homes in the city being 50 years or older. Free technical assistance and advice consists of a 30-minute home visit from a construction specialist who can provide information on local contractors and evaluate bids and estimates.

Homeowners who decide to go forward with projects can apply for low-interest loans through Key Bank at a 2% fixed rate for loan amounts from $3,000- $150,000 for a 5-10-year term. A 15- year term is available through Third Federal Savings & Loan, which offers a 4.99% fixed rate loan on amounts from $5,200-$150,000.

“Any county program that has the potential to save residents in Brecksville money, I will continue to encourage our city council to look into,” said Brecksville Mayor Daryl Kingston. “With so many of our homes in Brecksville at or near 50 years of age, this program made sense to join now.” Visit heritagehomeprogram.org for more information.