If you’re a homeowner in Central Wisconsin, you know how much pride we take in our homes. Whether you’re in Wausau, Stevens Point, Marshfield, or any of the charming small towns in between, the weather here can be tough on homes, those cold winters, spring thaws, and humid summers do a number on everything from siding to basements.
Maybe you’re looking to modernize a kitchen that’s still stuck in the ’80s. Or maybe you need to make your home more energy efficient, accessible, or just more you. The desire to renovate is there, but the big question is: how do you pay for it?
Good news—there are lots of home renovation financing options specifically available to folks like you right here in Central Wisconsin. Whether you’re eyeing a full-scale remodel or just need to fix the roof before winter, this guide will walk you through the grants, loans, and financial resources that can help make it happen.
Let’s dive into it!
Understanding the Need: Why Home Renovation Financing Matters in Central Wisconsin
The homes in Central Wisconsin tend to be older—many built before the 1980s—so it’s no surprise that wear and tear creeps up on us. Add our unique climate into the mix, and maintenance becomes more than just an option—it’s a necessity.
Here are a few region-specific reasons homeowners like you look into financing:
Weather impact: Snow, ice, rain, and wind can shorten the lifespan of roofs, windows, and foundations.
Energy costs: Drafty windows and outdated insulation = higher heating bills.
Aging housing stock: Older homes often need plumbing, electrical, or structural updates.
Property value boost: Renovating your home can dramatically increase its value, especially in a growing real estate market.
Types of Home Renovation Financing Available in Central Wisconsin
Let’s break down your options. From grants and government loans to equity-based solutions, here’s what you need to know.
1. Grants for Home Renovation
Grants are basically free money—yeah, you read that right. You don’t need to pay them back, but they often come with strict eligibility requirements.
Local & State Home Improvement Grant Options:
Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP): Offers help with energy-related repairs for low-income homeowners. More info here
Community Development Block Grants (CDBG): Many Central Wisconsin municipalities use these federal funds to support local home improvements for income-eligible residents.
USDA Rural Development Grants: If you live in a rural part of Central Wisconsin, you might qualify for up to $10,000 for repairs. Check eligibility
📝 Pro Tip: Your city or county website often lists grant opportunities—worth checking quarterly since programs open and close throughout the year.
2. Home Renovation Loans
If you don’t qualify for grants (or need more funding than a grant can offer), loans are the next best thing.
Popular Loan Types:
FHA 203(k) Rehab Loan: Backed by the federal government and allows you to finance both the purchase and renovation of a home in one loan.
Home Equity Loans / HELOCs: If you’ve built up equity in your home, you can tap into it. Great rates, but you’re using your home as collateral.
Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) Loans: These can include renovation financing and often come with favorable rates for Wisconsin residents. Explore WHEDA
Personal Renovation Loans: Unsecured loans from local banks and credit unions—great for smaller projects.
3. Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Financing
This is a growing option in Wisconsin for energy-efficient upgrades. PACE allows you to finance green upgrades (solar, insulation, HVAC) through a property tax assessment—so you pay it back over time, with low interest.
Available in many Wisconsin municipalities, including Portage County and Marathon County.
4. Special Local Incentive Programs
Some cities offer their own unique incentives. For example:
Stevens Point Homeowner Repair Loan Program – low-interest loans for health, safety, and code compliance.
Wausau’s Neighborhood Revitalization Program – grants and deferred loans for qualifying residents.
Always check with your City Housing Authority or Community Development Office—you might be surprised by what’s available.
What to Consider Before Applying for Financing
Before jumping into any loan or grant, ask yourself the following:
What’s my budget? Know your project costs before applying.
Do I qualify for income-based programs? Some options have income limits.
Is this a short- or long-term renovation? Match your financing length to the life of the project.
How much equity do I have? For equity-based loans, this is key.
How urgent is the project? Grants and low-interest loans often take longer to process.
Best Manufacturers for Home Renovation Products in Central Wisconsin
Quality materials can make or break your renovation—here are trusted manufacturers known for durability in Wisconsin’s unique climate.
Top Home Renovation Product Manufacturers:
Andersen Windows – Known for energy-efficient, long-lasting windows perfect for cold Wisconsin winters.
CertainTeed Roofing – Offers shingles built to withstand snow, ice, and hail common in Central Wisconsin.
LP SmartSide – Engineered wood siding that resists moisture and freeze-thaw cycles.
Kohler – Wisconsin-based company with high-quality plumbing fixtures and stylish bathroom and kitchen products.
Owens Corning – Durable insulation and roofing materials built for Midwestern homes.
Step-by-Step: How to Secure Renovation Financing in Central Wisconsin
1. Define Your Project Scope What needs to be done? Prioritize needs vs. wants.
2. Get Estimates Call local contractors to get multiple quotes—don’t just guess at your costs.
3. Research Financing Options Visit city websites, WHEDA, and USDA pages to see what you qualify for.
4. Gather Documentation Expect to provide tax returns, pay stubs, home appraisal, and project quotes.
5. Apply Apply to multiple programs or loans to compare offers.
6. Get Approved and Get Started Once approved, you’re ready to begin. Some programs may require follow-ups or inspections.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are there renovation grants available for seniors in Central Wisconsin?
Yes. Many CDBG programs and USDA Rural Development grants prioritize senior homeowners, especially those with fixed incomes.
Can I use renovation loans to make my home more energy-efficient?
Absolutely. WHEDA and PACE financing are ideal for energy upgrades like solar, HVAC, windows, and insulation.
How long does it take to get approved for a renovation loan or grant?
Grants can take weeks to months, while bank loans often approve in 1–2 weeks. Plan accordingly.
What if my home is in a rural area?
You’re in luck. USDA grants and loans are designed for rural homeowners, and much of Central Wisconsin qualifies.
Can I DIY the renovation or do I need a licensed contractor?
Some grants and loans require licensed contractors. Always check before you begin.
Final Thoughts: Making Your Renovation Dreams a Reality
Renovating your home in Central Wisconsin is more than just updating finishes—it’s about protecting your investment, improving energy efficiency, and creating a space you truly love. The good news? There’s a wide range of financing options tailored to your needs, income, and goals.
So whether you’re patching up after a brutal winter or finally remodeling that outdated bathroom, don’t let funding be the thing that holds you back.
If you’re serious about renovating your home and want to explore the smartest ways to fund it, contact us at (715) 551-7328. We’d be happy to walk you through your home remodeling options, answer questions, and help guide you to the right resources.