Due to the overwhelming response by the community, the HDB funding is fully committed for the 2020 program year.  We can’t wait to see how these improvements impact the City.  Applications were taken at a first come, first awarded basis and helped 98 people, including 30 new purchases for owner occupancy.  We thank you for your continued interest in the program. 

Please check in at the beginning of the 2021 to see when the program will be replenished for the new year.   If you would like to learn more about the program, check out the 2020 guidelinesIf you have read the guidelines and have additional questions, you can contact the Housing Development Specialist at development@ci.sandusky.oh.us or 419.627.5832.   

Remember, any projects that you intend to apply for cannot be started/completed before a conditional award letter.  Any home purchases that have closed prior to a conditional award letter will not be eligible.    

The intent of the program is to spur new housing development while preserving existing housing stock in an effort to retain and attract residents to the City of Sandusky.

Applicants for improvements/repairs will need contractor's estimates along with the completed application.

Applicants for down payment assistance will need a purchase agreement and loan estimate from their lender along with the completed application.

Projects completed prior to a Conditional Award Letter or home purchases that have already closed are not eligible for the program.

2020 Housing Development & Beautification Program Guidelines


Housing Development and Beautification program funds can be used for the following purposes:
Substantial Redevelopment Up to *$5,000 grant assistance for projects in excess of $20,000 per unit

HDB grants may be used to subsidize the cost of constructing new housing units or substantially rehabilitating existing housing units. These grants may also be used for the creation of new housing units through adaptive reuse of non-residential properties into residential properties. Certain permits, inspections, and registered contractors may be required to participate in this program.

Exterior Repairs & Landscaping 50% of eligible project costs (maximum of $3,000) and 80% of eligible landscaping costs (maximum $500)

Grants may be used to undertake certain exterior home repairs and improvements which can be seen from the right-of-way, including but not limited to painting, porch construction, roof repairs, and window replacement. Certain permits, inspections, and registered contractors may be required to participate in this program. Landscaping projects may be added to an eligible exterior repair or improvement.

Down Payment Assistance 3.5% of the purchase price (maximum of $5,000)

Grants may be used for the acquisition of one-, two-, and three-family residences that will be owner-occupied. This assistance will be in the form of down payment or closing cost assistance. *other calculations and maximums may apply per project