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Two programs are currently available to Cass County residents in need of financial assistance for home repair projects. Each program has unique requirements for household income, applicable repairs, place of residence and required documents. A brief overview of each program is below.

Emergency Home Repair button
MI-HOPE button

The intent of the Emergency Repair Loan Program is to upgrade and improve houses of low to medium income residents to meet minimum Housing Quality Standards (HQS) and provide safe, affordable housing for residents of the County who meet income and eligibility requirements through zero (0) percent interest deferred loans.

Facilitated by: Cass County and City of Dowagiac

Funding:

0% interest deferred loans are available in the amount of up to $8,000 per home. Deferred loans exceeding $2,499 will result in a lien on the home.  Re-payment of the funds shall be due and payable to the County in full in one lump sum when the property is refinanced, sold, transferred, or ownership is otherwise conveyed, voluntarily or involuntarily

You may qualify if:

  • Own and reside in a single-family home in Cass County.
  • Are up to date on property tax and home insurance payments.
  • Have conventional mortgages or paid off home and can produce a deed.
  • Total gross household income less than 80% of the Area Median Income
  • Able to present proof of household income for each member over 18 years of age.

Household Income Requirements:

1 person
$41,900
2 people
$47,900
3 people
$53,900
4 people
$59,850
5 people
$64,650
6 people
$69,450
7 people
$74,250
8 people
$79,050


Michigan Housing Opportunities Promoting Energy-Efficiency (MI-HOPE) is a program funded by Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) that provides up to $25,000 per qualifying household to make energy efficient improvements to their homes.


Facilitated by: Cass County Land Bank Authority

Funding:

Each qualifying home may apply for up to $25,000 in grant funding to pay for eligible home repair projects that enhance the home's energy efficiency.

Please note: Residents of the Village of Cassopolis and City of Dowagiac should contact their local unit, as each were awarded funds.

You may qualify if:

  • Your house is located in Cass County.
  • Your household income is less than 300% of federal poverty guidelines (chart below).
  • Your house is homeowner occupied.
  • You have owned your home for at least 1 year.
  • You have been affected by COVID-19 through either a reduction in income OR an increase in living expenses.
  • You’re willing to have an in-home energy audit completed and acquire quotes as needed.

Household Income Requirements:

1 person$38.650
2 people$52,260
3 people$65,880
4 people$79,500
5 people$93,100
6 people$106,740


Find MSHDA's MI-HOPE Fact Sheet here.

Apply EHRL button
Apply for MI-HOPE button