Many grants are available to fix up your home. However, the road to obtaining one involves considerable research in order to determine which funds are available and from whom; analysis of your needs and the grants available; and excellent communication skills. Additionally, from research to applying to receiving funds may be a long process, so this may not be best route if you need the money for your home quickly.
Instructions
1. Figure out what your home needs (major or minor renovation, retrofitting to meet current codes, upgrading, etc.). It is critical during this analysis that you are as honest as possible in determining what is needed.
Additionally, make three lists: what you wish to be done (also known as a dream list); what needs to be done (the critical steps that cannot be overlooked under any circumstances); and what you can accomplish on your own.
2. Figure out what groups you fall into for grant purposes. Many grants may be available, but they may only focus on a specific subgroup of people (i.e., low-income residents, veterans or those within a specific geographic area).
Analysis is crucial when applying for grants. If you do not analyze your situation first, you might find yourself unsure if you qualify for grants, or worse, don't apply for available grants because you didn't consider yourself eligible.
3. Research your options. At the end of this article are some sites to start with, but you can also use a search engine, plugging in terms that suit your situation.
Research is crucial when applying for grants. Applying blindly to organizations for money not only wastes your time but theirs as well. Also, thoroughly research those organizations that are offering grants--while many government agencies of various levels offer grants, steer clear of companies that offer grants for a fee. Grants should not cost you any money, aside from the cost of postage and supplies (if used).
4. Once you have identified which grants are available to you and are still open, then you need to begin the application process. Most granting organizations want to give the money away to those who qualify, so they will include the directions for the grant application. Keep in mind that if the grant application asks for something (proof of income, proof of military service, proof of address, etc.), then supply it with your application. You do not want your grant to be dismissed because you didn't include a crucial piece of information. Additionally, while this is your home, this is a business transaction as well, so approach the situation as you would with any other business scenario--respectfully and with your eyes wide open. This is where your log--either computerized or hand-written--is invaluable in helping you track what stage of the process you're in, what needs to be done, etc.
5. Keep an eye on the calendar (again, either a special one in your computer or a printed one with dates, deadlines, and progress noted). Having done your analysis, research and applying, all that's left is to watch the calendar. Some grants won't begin to hand out money until the end of the application period, while others hand out money on a first-come-first-served basis. Knowing which kind of grants you've applied for, watch the calendar to see when deadlines are coming up.
Tips Warnings
Heed deadlines. Think of this as a business transaction, so apply on time. Applying late might remove you from consideration for a grant that you otherwise would have qualified for. Gather all your information before applying. Read through the instructions, and if they ask for any supporting evidence be sure to have all that before beginning the application. This will make the process that much easier for you. As you go through the process of research, you may need to reevaluate your original assumptions. That's fine--it's better to re-evaluate your situation and then have to do more research than to apply for grants you're not qualified for or miss out on grants.
Scams abound when it comes to grants. Be sure to check out any grants you see to make sure they are legitimate. Government grants should not cost you any money--if anyone asks you for money for a government grant, then run the other way.
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