MHC News 07/03/20233

Developers dig into affordable housing near Dallas’ Fair Park - The Real Deal

Two developers, Scottie Smith II and Kevin Hemphill, who have roots in South Dallas, are spearheading an affordable housing project in the Jeffries-Meyers neighborhood near Fair Park. They broke ground on the project, which will convert a former homeless encampment into affordable homes. The development will consist of duplexes with two floor plans, offering three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a two-car garage. Prices will range from the low $200,000s to $285,000, thanks to a $1.4 million development subsidy granted in 2020. The Dallas Housing Foundation, founded by Smith and Hemphill, aims to revitalize the historically disinvested area. Eligible buyers include single individuals earning up to $89,000 and four-person households earning up to $127,000, with potential assistance from the city's homebuyer program. The project seeks to improve the community's long-term outlook, combating issues such as crime, drugs, and poverty.

Novato resident offers city $30M for mobile home park -Marin Independent Journal

Novato is facing budget deficits, and a resident named Dean Moser has offered to buy the city-owned Marin Valley Mobile Country Club for $30 million. Moser, the founder of HCA Property Management Inc., presented his proposal during a budget hearing. The mobile home park spans 63 acres and is currently owned by the city. It accommodates over 400 residents, primarily aged 55 or older, with 40% of the spaces reserved for low-income tenants. The park covers its costs through rental fees but requires significant repairs and maintenance, estimated to cost tens of millions of dollars over the next three decades. City staff state that without additional revenue, the park may operate at a deficit, necessitating subsidies from the city's general fund. While the property is not currently up for sale, the City Council will discuss Moser's offer in a closed session.

Manufactured Housing Communities in Pennsylvania: The Basics - Federal Reserve Bank Philadelphia

Manufactured housing communities in Pennsylvania provide an affordable homeownership option, particularly in urban areas. These communities are located in areas with lower poverty rates and higher homeownership rates compared to the state overall. They cater to lower-income homebuyers, making homeownership more attainable for moderate-income households. However, there are drawbacks, including limited wealth-building potential, the risk of displacement if the community closes, and the reliance on higher-cost personal property loans instead of traditional mortgages.

Inside a Texas homeless village that inspires California replicas: Art, movies and a fishing pond - Call Matters

Community First! Village in Austin, Texas is a unique approach to addressing homelessness, offering permanent housing in a vibrant community setting. The 51-acre village provides homes for about 350 formerly unhoused individuals and features amenities such as a ceramics studio, outdoor movie theater, and game room. The village is designed to create a sense of belonging and community for its residents. California has been inspired by the success of Community First! and similar projects are being developed in the state. However, challenges exist in replicating the model due to limited land availability and debates about the adequacy of tiny homes as permanent housing. Community First! Village has demonstrated positive outcomes, including reduced substance use among residents. The village's emphasis on choice and providing a supportive environment has made a significant impact on the lives of its residents.