ASSET BUILDING
Our Asset Building Programs help income-eligible Columbiana County residents purchase homes and start small businesses. For more information about eligibility and availability, call 330.424.4013.
Our homebuyer program is available to individuals who do not currently own a home and wish to purchase a primary residence in Columbiana County. Certified housing counselors provide one-on-one housing counseling to those interested in learning about the buying process. Participants may be eligible for financial assistance under the Columbiana County Community Housing Impact and Preservation (CHIP) program to provide for down payment and rehabilitation on the home to address repairs.
CAA administers CHIP for the cities of East Liverpool, East Palestine, Salem, and Columbiana. The CHIP-funded programs provide down payment assistance in the amount of 10 percent of the sales price, and additional funding is available to assist with repairs that are needed on the home.
In addition to the CHIP program, CAA also administers the Ohio Housing Trust Fund program. This program provides down payment and closing cost assistance to first time homebuyers who are income eligible.
All participants receive one-on-one housing counseling. The housing counseling covers topics such as budgets, credit analysis, debt-to-income ratios, lender underwriting criteria, real estate agent roles, predatory lending, benefits and responsibilities of home ownership, insurance products, mortgage products, inspection tips, purchase agreements, closing costs, and home maintenance.
SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
CAA provides small business development training and administers several revolving loan funds to provide loans to those looking to start or expand a small business in Columbiana County. Participants of the program prepare a business plan that includes three-year cash projections and must meet program eligibility requirements. Loans are provided at a competitive, fixed rate for a term of 5-10 years.
If you are interested in the Home Ownership or Small Business Development programs, contact us at 330-424-4013.
Small Business COVID 19 Emergency Loan Program
The Community Action Agency of Columbiana County, Inc. is utilizing small business revolving loan funds to assist small businesses that have been required to close due to classification as a non-essential business during Covid-19. A total of $50,000 is available to loan out to small businesses that meet the requirements noted below. CAA is waiving all application and loan fees for this program and is an Equal Opportunity Lender.