YOUNGSTOWN – The city, through programs administered by the 717 Credit Union, is accepting applications to improve Youngstown’s housing stock using $5 million in American Rescue Plan funds.

A $3 million Residential Facade Program will provide 1% interest loans of up to $10,000 for five years or a dollar-for-dollar match up to $10,000 to qualifying homeowners in the city to improve and update the exterior of their homes and address any cited or potential code violations.

The intent of the program is to stabilize and increase the value of homes in Youngstown.

Eligible improvements include house painting, installation or replacement of shutters or awnings, window replacements, sidewalk and / or driveway replacements, siding replacement, step replacement or repairs, and garage repairs.

The $2 million Landlord Loan Fund will allow property owners to borrow up to $50,000 per single-family property and up to $100,000 for multi-unit houses at 2% interest for up to five years.

The money would allow landlords to make renovations, repairs or address housing code violations.

The program requires landlords to maintain the property for five years and not increase rent to current tenants during the same time frame. A sale would require the landlord to repay the loan immediately.

Those wanting to review qualification details and apply for funding can go online to: www.717cu.com/youngstown-residential-property-improvement-programs.

John Demmler, 717’s president and CEO, said the programs “are designed to enhance our communities by improving the quality of housing throughout the city.

Mayor Jamael Tito Brown said the Residential Facade Program “not only serves as a critical vehicle for so many in our city to make needed improvements to their homes and increase the value in their homes, but it’s a step toward enhancing the perception of our neighborhoods and giving residents a level of pride.”

The credit union will also handle the city’s Youngstown Affordable Loan Program, funded through an $8 million ARP allocation. The program isn’t ready to accept applications.

The program would help with new construction and / or rehabilitation of quality affordable housing.

Those participating would get a 2% rate reduction and not have to pay closing costs.