Des Plaines homeowners are invited to learn more about assistance programs available from our regional partners. Whether you're a Senior Citizen in need of minor repairs to your home, or a first-time homebuyer seeking cash assistance, we'd like to share with you a few programs that are currently available. If you have any questions for the City, please contact Samantha Redman via email or by phone at 847-391-5384.

North West Housing Partnership's Senior Handyman Program

The North West Housing Partnership (NWHP) operates a “Handyman Program” for those who are age 60+ and in need of minor repairs to their homes. The City of Des Plaines has supported this program since 2017.

Through the program, home repairs are done by an experienced and licensed handyman who is vetted by NWHP. The service is limited to basic repairs that take no more than two hours to complete. The types of repairs provided are grab bars, door locks, ceiling fans, light fixtures, garbage disposal, faucet, drain or toilet repairs, shower doors, and the hanging of curtains, pictures, and shelving. Time-sensitive emergency repairs are not included in the program.

Typically, the resident is responsible for purchasing the materials needed to make the repairs, but some exceptions may apply. There is a small service fee that ranges from $20 to $40 per hour, depending on the resident’s annual household income.

To learn more about this program or to sign up for this service, call NWHP at 847-969-0561, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. To learn more about other NWHP home repair programs for seniors or the disabled, please visit their website at nwhp.net.

IHDA Mortgage Assistance

The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) operates the IHDA Mortgage program, which can provide down payment and closing cost assistance for qualifying residents. IHDA loans offer competitive mortgage rates, and borrowers may be eligible for a $10,000 down payment assistance loan.

For more information, visit the IHDA website linked above, or the IHDA Mortgage website at ihdamortgage.org