City of Ames Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Program

City of Ames Community Development (CDBG)

Available Home Repair

About This Program

City of Ames Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Program is available to homeowners in Ames, IA.

Provides forgivable loans to income-eligible homeowners for major home repairs and rehabilitation. The loan is forgiven after 5 years of continued owner-occupancy. Applicants must be at or below 80% Area Median Income.

Forgivable loan amount based on scope of needed repairs, no repayment if residency maintained for 5 years

Data last verified 2026-06-09. How we verify our data.

In Ames, IA, you can combine this program with other local help to cut your cost:

Key Details

  • Forgivable loan up to $24,999 for major repairs
  • Must be owner-occupied in Ames city limits
  • Income at or below 80% AMI required
  • Forgiven after 5 years of compliance
  • Covers structural, roofing, plumbing, electrical

How to Apply

Get free help applying Visit Official Program Page Track this program

(515) 239-5140

A grant-savvy contractor in Ames, IA can handle the paperwork, inspections, and timelines so your funding releases on schedule. Getting matched is free.

You will likely need a contractor to apply

Projects like this almost always need a licensed contractor, and many grants ask for a written estimate as part of your application. Lining up a contractor in Ames early keeps your application moving.

Get matched with a contractor

This program is usually a forgivable loan: you owe nothing if you stay in the home for the set period, but it may place a lien on the property until then.

Each program sets its own contractor rules. Check the official program page for exact requirements.

Your application paperwork

Documents you will likely need

  • Proof you own and live in the home (deed, recent mortgage statement, or property tax bill).
  • A government-issued photo ID for every owner on title.
  • Household income proof (recent pay stubs, last year's tax return, or benefit award letters for everyone in the home).
  • A written estimate from a licensed contractor for the work (many programs require this to apply).
  • Photos of the problem area or the work to be done.
  • The program's own application form, completed (use the official link or phone number on this page).
Download this checklist (PDF)

Requirements vary by program and locality. Confirm the exact rules on the official program page. We can help you prepare your paperwork, but you submit it yourself.

Deadline: Rolling basis, subject to funding availability

Questions about this program?

Ask us. It is free, and a real person answers within a business day.

Email us about this program

Frequently asked questions

How much can City of Ames Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Program provide in Ames, IA?

Up to $24,999 forgivable loan.

Who qualifies for City of Ames Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Program in Ames?

City of Ames Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Program is open to homeowners in Ames, IA. It prioritizes low-income households.

How do I apply for City of Ames Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Program in Ames, IA?

Apply directly with City of Ames Community Development (CDBG) using the official program link on this page or call (515) 239-5140. There is no middleman and no fee.

Need a Contractor for This Grant?

Grant-approved contractors understand the documentation, inspections, and timelines, so your funding releases on schedule.

Get matched with a pro, free Browse Ames, IA contractors

Find More Programs in Ames, IA

This is just one of many grants, rebates, and free programs available. Stack them together to maximize your savings.

See All Programs