MUSKOKA - Funding is once again available for home repairs and down payments through the District of Muskoka.The Investment in Affordable Housing Program is a $1.7-million allocation provided by the federal and provincial governments to help families with new rental construction, home repairs, home ownership and rent supplements.Last year the program helped 13 households in Muskoka with new roofs, wells, doors, heating systems and other home repairs.Heather Moore, director of programs for the District of Muskoka, said the program is helping maintain affordable housing in Muskoka as well as helping more people be able to own their own homes.“Many people are paying more than they would for a mortgage payment in rent, and having access to a down payment has made a big difference,” she said.The maximum someone can receive for home repairs through the program is a $10,000 loan. Accessibility modifications can receive a grant of up to $3,500.Moore said most of the necessary renovations fall within $10,000.“You can do a roof for about $62 short of $10,000. It’s amazing how consistent the pricing has been,” she said. “You can do a lot of windows in a house … and you can do a well for just under $10,000.”The program opened on April 22 and Moore expects the funds to be spoken for by mid-summer.For more information, go to muskoka.on.ca/siteengine/activepage.asp?PageID=573.