The Historic Preservation Exterior Rehabilitation Assistance Program in Phoenix aims to support the preservation of historic buildings by providing financial assistance for exterior rehabilitation, repair, and restoration work. The program is designed to help property owners retain and protect the original architectural features of historic homes, encouraging sensitive rehabilitation that maintains the character-defining elements. Assistance is targeted at private property owners who continue to use their historic homes for residential purposes and are located within city-designated historic districts or are listed individually on the Phoenix Historic Property Register.

Funding for the program is provided on a 50/50 matching basis, where the city reimburses up to half of the project costs for approved exterior rehabilitation work. Grants range from $5,000 to $20,000 per project, with the amount awarded contingent on the availability of annual funding. In exchange for financial support, property owners are required to grant the city a conservation easement, ensuring the preservation of the exterior historic character of the property. Eligible exterior projects include a variety of repairs and restoration efforts such as roof and foundation work, structural rehabilitation, masonry repairs, window and door restoration, and the reversal of inappropriate alterations. Interior work is generally not funded unless it is necessary for the structural stabilization of historic exteriors.

Applications are assessed through a competitive process, with priority given to projects that align with the city's preservation philosophy and General Design Guidelines for Historic Properties. These guidelines promote rehabilitation techniques that prioritize the preservation of original building materials and features, allowing for in-kind replacements only when preservation is impractical. Key considerations in the selection process include the significance of the property, the critical need for repairs, the quality of the application, and the potential visual impact on the historic neighborhood. Projects that return non-contributing properties to contributing status or substantially enhance a historic district’s appearance are particularly favored.

To apply, property owners must submit a comprehensive application package, including a Historic Property Inventory Form, cost estimates, photos, site plans, and any other necessary documentation. All materials must be uploaded to the city's designated file-sharing platform by November 15, 2024, following the issuance of a unique link, which can be requested from the Historic Preservation Office no later than November 13, 2024. Late submissions or incomplete applications will not be considered.

The city offers a recorded virtual workshop to assist applicants in preparing their submissions, providing guidance on the application process, documentation requirements, and project planning. Additionally, applicants are encouraged to thoroughly research the architectural history of their properties and obtain detailed construction bids to strengthen their proposals.

The program does not fund new construction, additions, site improvements, or non-historic elements. Instead, it focuses on projects that maintain the historic integrity of the property and contribute to the broader goals of the city’s Historic Preservation Office, which seeks to foster private investment and protect Phoenix’s architectural heritage.