In contrast to a loan, a grant is money that you're given for a specific purpose that you don't have to pay back. The United States government has grants available for all kinds of home improvements. To qualify for one of these grants, you have to show what home improvements are necessary and that you can't afford to pay for the home improvements. Some are only for people over 62 (for instance the Section 504 home repair program.) If you're approved, you'll receive the money and will be able to start renovating your home. Here are some tips on how to apply for a grant [source: Government Grants, Yale]. … [Read more...] about How to Apply for Federal Home Improvement Grants