Low Interest Loan Program


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Preserve South Dakota operates a statewide revolving loan fund available to members prepared to undertake quality rehabilitation work on their home or commercial building. These loans are offered at a low interest rate in order to encourage preservation. To date, over $500,000 has been loaned.

• HOW DO I QUALIFY FOR A REVOLVING LOAN?
First, the building that you expect to improve with the funds must be "historically significant" (see explanation below).  Second, the borrower(s) must demonstrate the financial ability to make regular monthly loan payments. Funds are made available to individuals regardless of race, handicap, age, religion, gender, national origin, or familial status.

• HOW DO I KNOW IF MY PROPERTY IS HISTORICALLY SIGNIFICANT?
A property is considered historically significant if 1) it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, 2) it is listed on a local register of historic or cultural resources, or 3) it is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places or a local register after renovations. In general terms, this means that a structure, building or site must be at least 50 years old and retain its original architectural integrity.

• WHAT IMPROVEMENTS CAN I MAKE USING THE LOAN FUNDS?
Loan funds can be used for restoration, rehabilitation and repair, acquisition, and project-related costs. The highest priority for funding is placed on exterior improvements, including windows, doors, foundations, porches, roofs, chimneys, brick, masonry, siding repair, seismic retrofitting, and reconstructing existing additions. Secondary priority is placed on interior systems, including the heating, plumbing, and electrical finishes. For example, a revolving loan application will not be approved for a kitchen or bathroom-remodeling project if the roof and foundation need to be repaired, unless they are part of a more comprehensive renovation plan.

All construction materials and labor costs on renovating existing building aspects are eligible, including costs such as engineering services, architect’s fees and permits. Loan funds may not be used for landscaping, new construction, fences, non-historic retaining walls, and concrete pads (patios, parking, etc.) In addition, the funds may not be used for incompatible materials, inappropriate rehabilitation techniques, refinancing existing mortgages or for projects that have already been completed. Funding requests for work in progress will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

• WHAT ARE THE TERMS OF THE LOAN?
Loan amounts are limited to $15,000 per project at a 4.95% interest rate. All loans are amortized for a maximum of seven (7) years. Security is required for collateral, usually in the form of a mortgage on the property or other tangible property.

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Email:  preservesd@gwtc.net
Preserve South Dakota
351 4th Street
Scotland, SD  57059

Office: (605) 583-4509

Last Revised:  07 January, 2007
© 2002 Preserve South Dakota
All Rights Reserved.