By Brett Roberts, Principal Planner

Under HMLP, Stockbridge residents are eligible for a variety of state-funded housing initiatives including the Home Modification Loan Program (HMLP). HMLP is a state-funded no-interest loan program to provide modifications to those in need of accessibility improvements or for those hoping to “age in place” in their community and home of choice. Eligible applicants include homeowners and landlords (with fewer than 10 units) with necessary changes needed to their homes to keep disabled or elderly family members in their own homes. Home held in a trust are eligible as well.

Possible modifications include bathroom and kitchen modifications, ramps, stair lifts, platform lifts, sensory/therapy spaces, hard-wired alarm systems, fences, accessory dwelling units, and more. Please note that this is not a home repair program; repairs to roofs, windows, and heating are not eligible. All work must be completed by licensed and insured contractors.

For property owners, 0% interest loans range between $1,000 and $50,000. No monthly payments are required, with repayment is required when the property is sold or transferred.

All applications are subject to HMLP eligibility requirements. The program income guidelines are based on household size and are generous. For example, a household of 2 can make up to $264,800 per year. For more information or eligibility questions, please visit www.cedac.org/hmlp or contact Brett Roberts at HMLP@berkshireplanning.org.

If you are interested in any other state-funded or state-sponsored housing programs or initiatives within Berkshire County including planning, CDBG housing rehabilitation, housing production, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), etc., please feel free to reach out to me, Brett Roberts, at broberts@berkshireplanning.org.