Miami is providing financial assistance of up to $150,000 to homeowners with limited incomes for home repairs. This initiative aims to fund necessary improvements such as roof repairs, electrical systems, plumbing, and other issues affecting the safety and livability of homes.
The aid is part of Florida's State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP), managed locally by Miami's Department of Housing and Community Development.
As per the official announcement from the Miami City Council, the application period for the fiscal year 2026-2027 began on September 14 and will remain open until the allocated funds are depleted.
Details of Miami's Home Repair Assistance
Various types of financial support are available for homeowners and first-time homebuyers under this program, each with distinct financial limits:
Home Rehabilitation: Up to $150,000.
Emergency Repairs: Up to $75,000.
Home Replacement: Up to $375,000 when a structure cannot be adequately rehabilitated.
First Home Purchase: Up to $130,002, based on the number of rooms and program conditions.
These categories are part of the SHIP program, each with unique requirements and objectives. For the fiscal year 2026-2027, Miami is expected to receive at least $2,211,782 in state funding for these strategies. However, this amount is not solely for home repairs, and individual assistance depends on assessed needs, applicant eligibility, and available resources.
Eligibility for the $150,000 Program
The home rehabilitation program targets current homeowners who need to make repairs to ensure their residence is safe and livable. Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Own the home and use it as their primary residence.
- Reside within Miami's city limits, not just have a Miami postal address or live in any Miami-Dade municipality.
- Meet applicable family income limits. Households earning up to 80% of the area median income are eligible.
- Adhere to property value limits, with a maximum of $679,324 for homes eligible for rehabilitation.
- Pass the Department of Housing's assessment and provide required documentation.
The program includes single-family homes, townhouses, and certain owner-occupied condominiums, provided they meet the necessary conditions. Preferences are also given to certain households, including elderly homeowners and those with special needs.
Income Limits to Qualify
Miami uses the Area Median Income (AMI) indicator to set income limits based on household size. As of May 1, 2026, the 80% AMI level for SHIP programs is:
- One person: $76,300 annually.
- Two people: $87,200 annually.
- Three people: $98,100 annually.
- Four people: $109,000 annually.
- Five people: $117,750 annually.
These figures represent family income limits, not payments to beneficiaries. SHIP also considers moderate incomes in other categories, so each homeowner should verify their specific limit before applying.
Eligible Repairs Under the Program
The program aims to address deficiencies affecting a property's safety and habitability. Eligible repairs include deteriorated roofs, plumbing systems, electrical installations, and other necessary work to meet safety and health standards. Structural issues and non-compliance with building codes may also be considered.
This is not a general grant for aesthetic remodeling or luxury improvements. All work must be assessed and approved within the program. If a property presents hazardous conditions, the owner can mark their application as an emergency, prompting an inspection to determine if emergency rehabilitation is warranted.
Repayment Terms of the $150,000 Aid
It's crucial for prospective applicants to understand that this financial assistance is not a cash gift. Miami's local housing plan offers a deferred payment loan with 0% interest over ten years for ordinary rehabilitation.
Under normal circumstances, the loan may be forgiven if the homeowner meets all obligations. However, certain situations, such as selling or transferring the property, converting it into a rental, or ceasing to use it as a primary residence, may require repayment.
In July 2026, Miami approved a modification to the housing plan concerning repayment conditions upon the original beneficiary's death, so owners and their heirs should review the current terms before signing agreements.
While this assistance can be beneficial for families lacking resources for crucial home repairs, understanding loan conditions and obligations tied to the property is essential.
How to Apply for Miami's Rehabilitation Assistance
Miami has a specific procedure for homeowners looking to rehabilitate or replace their homes. The main steps include:
- Verify the property is within Miami's city limits. This can be checked using county property records, with folio numbers for Miami starting with 01.
- Review household income and property value to meet current requirements.
- Request a rehabilitation application form via email or phone.
- Complete and submit the application following municipal instructions, noting any dangerous conditions in the home.
- Wait for a preliminary evaluation. If initially eligible, the city will acknowledge receipt and assign a waitlist number.
- Attend the scheduled appointment. The city will request necessary documents to verify eligibility and determine repairs.
Preliminarily eligible applicants may receive a confirmation letter about a week after applying, but this does not guarantee final approval or immediate funding availability.
Contact Information for Application and Waitlist Status
Homeowners can use the following official channels:
Phone: 305-416-2080 for information.
Email: SFRPapplication@miamigov.com for the application form.
Waitlist Status: 305-416-2149.
In-Person: Miami Riverside Center, 444 SW 2nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33130. Forms are available on the third floor, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Department inquiries are handled on the ninth floor.
The official program information is accessible on Miami's housing portal. It's advisable to confirm hours, form availability, and fund status beforehand, as funding is limited.
Differences from Miami-Dade Mortgage Assistance
Several housing assistance programs exist in South Florida, each with different objectives. For instance, Miami-Dade offers up to $3,500 to homeowners for mortgage relief, insurance, association fees, and overdue bills. This mortgage relief program is county-run and has different conditions than Miami's home rehabilitation program.
Additionally, My Safe Florida Home, a state program, provides up to $10,000 for hurricane-proofing homes, which is separate from SHIP's goal of helping low-income homeowners maintain their properties through necessary repairs.
Important Considerations Before Applying
The 2026-2027 application period opened on September 14, but applicants should be aware that submissions depend on fund availability and existing waitlists. There is no guarantee of receiving the full $150,000 or immediate approval. The amount is determined by the application, necessary repairs, and municipal evaluation.
As of October 8, 2026, it's unclear how much funding remains specifically for ordinary rehabilitation. Interested parties should contact Miami's Department of Housing for updated information and review program terms before making financial commitments or starting any work.
For families living in deteriorating properties without financial means for significant repairs, this assistance may offer an opportunity to improve home safety, provided they meet the conditions and funds are available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Miami's Home Repair Program
Who is eligible for the home repair assistance in Miami?
Homeowners who use their property as their primary residence, live within Miami's city limits, and meet income and property value criteria are eligible. Preferences are given to elderly homeowners and those with special needs.
What types of repairs are covered under the program?
The program covers repairs that address safety and habitability issues, including roofs, plumbing, electrical systems, and structural problems. It does not cover aesthetic remodels or luxury improvements.
Do recipients have to repay the $150,000 assistance?
The assistance is provided as a deferred payment loan with 0% interest over ten years. Under normal circumstances, the loan may be forgiven if all obligations are met, but certain conditions may require repayment.