HOLIDAY, Fla. — A program in Pasco County is helping homeowners afford major repairs to their homes. It’s called the ‘Owner Occupied Rehab Program.’

What You Need To Know

  • The Owner Occupied Rehab program is helping homeowners in Pasco County afford major repairs to their homes

  • Those homeowners who are eligible must have incomes under 120% of the area median income

  • Within the last five years, the program has helped close to 200 families- including one couple who were ready to put their home up for sale

Homeowners who are eligible must have incomes under 120% of the area median income. Such repairs include correcting code violations like roof repair or replacement, fixing electrical and heating as well as water facilities. Funding is provided through a zero-interest recorded mortgage.

“Really, the number one qualification is their income,” says Marcy Esbjerg, Director of Community Development for Pasco County. “It’s the entire household’s income. That’s our first line and then also how much the house is valued by the tax collector. Those are the two biggest qualifications.”

Within the last five years, the program has helped close to 200 families. It’s a program that is helping to change lives.

“It was a miracle,” said Karen Conrad, who has lived in Pasco County with her husband Phillip for close to 30 years.

A proud streak that was almost close to breaking last year.

“There was no way we could afford to make the payments because our insurance went up double and we were faced with paying a house payment that was at the end,” said Karen.

A mountain of issues with their home had piled up. From past storms and the age of the home, repairs were needed but seemed impossible to afford. Until they heard about the Owner Occupied Rehab Program in Pasco County.

“He said we can fix everything for you and we about fell over,” said Karen. “I mean, we were desperate. We had gotten so depressed because there was no way we were going to be able to fix all of this.”

Part of what ‘this’ is includes brand-new sliding glass doors for the Conrads. As well as new windows all throughout their house.

“Every single, solitary thing that was bothering us in this house that made us hate living here and tempted to sell it as is- has been addressed,” she said.

Even on the outside, changes were made. A new roof successfully installed and an old oak tree threatening their home’s foundation removed.

“The change was so huge- what the guys came in and did- all of a sudden, we had new life,” said Karen. “We felt new life come into us.”

The changes have brought an air of freshness to the Conrad’s home. One that is allowing them to breathe a little easier.

“There is hope," said Karen. "There is a way when there seems to be no way, and that’s what we experienced.”

If you or someone you know may qualify for the program, you can learn how to apply online right here.