You may have heard of the Urban Redevelopment Authority, or seen their signs around Pittsburgh.  Or you might be aware of some of their past projects in Polish Hill, including the group of blue houses along Herron Avenue (at Dobson street, and up), the rehabs along Herron at Harding, or the homes at the end of Wiggins street.

The URA also has an array of loans to help homeowners fix up their properties.  In their recent newsletter, an article spotlighted one Polish Hill homeowner:

Sharon Wesolowski lives in the original home where she grew up in the Polish Hill neighborhood of the City of Pittsburgh. When it came time to address some desired renovations, she sought out a loan program that helps City of Pittsburgh residents, eventually landing her at the URA’s doorstep.

“Three years ago, I applied for the Pittsburgh Home Rehabilitation Program (PHRP) – a $25,000 loan with 0% percent interest to renovate my kitchen and bathroom. Dave Martincic (URA construction advisor) worked with me to find a contractor I felt comfortable with.  He provided me with a list and I chose three contractors to compare pricing.  As a result, I ended up with a beautiful new kitchen and bath that has greatly increased the value of my home,” said Wesolowski.

Sharon was so impressed with the URA program that this past year she participated in the URA’s Home Improvement Loan Program (HILP) – a $15,000 loan with 5.99% interest by applying for two more additional loans to cover a basement waterproofing project and installation of a new roof.

Committed to remain on Polish Hill, Sharon has been in conversation with many of the young homeowners moving into the neighborhood, sharing her experience with the URA programs.  “I can’t say enough about them.  I believe these are such useful programs in allowing low income homeowners the opportunity to renovate and increase the value of their properties. I chose to stay in my childhood neighborhood as a result.”

Check here for more information about URA home improvement loans.