Low-Interest Loans FOr Exterior Repairs

Historic Macon Foundation offers low-interest loans to finance the exterior repair and maintenance of buildings within Macon’s local historic districts. Commonly known as “Façade Loans,” these loans have helped Macon residents complete porch repairs, exterior painting, roofing, and permanent landscaping.

Examples

Bryan Nichols utilized the low-interest loan program to paint the exterior of a rental property on Hardeman Avenue.

Art and Paula Howard completed landscape improvements with funds from the facade improvement loan program.

Details

To qualify, a property must be located in one of the local historic districts where work visible from the right of way requires a certificate of appropriateness from the Macon-Bibb Planning & Zoning Commission (map here). Eligible expenses include materials, labor, permitting fees, professional design service fees, and tax credit consulting fees. Loans are available in increments of $5,000 up to $20,000 maximum ($10,000 if funded via a special loan program for the Vineville neighborhood). The interest rate on these loans is 4 percent with a repayment term of 5 years. Borrowers are required to match 20 percent of the loan value and to provide financial information when applying. A Loan Review Committee evaluates all requests within 60 days, and all personal information is kept strictly confidential. To apply, use the online form below or download and return the pdf applications. Please be advised that the online application cannot be saved. Before you apply, gather the following information:

• Proof of property ownership

• Proof of household income

• Scope of work for repairs and maintenance

• Contractor bids and/or materials costs

• Credit card, auto and mortgage loan balances