Explore How Factory-Built Homes Could Solve Syracuse’s Affordable Housing Crisis

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Explore How Factory-Built Homes Could Solve Syracuse’s Affordable Housing Crisis

Syracuse Offers Innovative Solution to Affordable Housing Crisis with Factory-Built Homes

Syracuse, New York, is addressing its affordable housing crisis head-on with a new initiative showcasing a factory-built home. This innovative one-story residence, located in the Valley neighborhood, presents a promising solution for local buyers struggling to find affordable housing options.

Revolutionary Factory-Built Home Exemplifies Affordable Housing Solutions

The home at 139 Maxwell Avenue, featuring three bedrooms and two bathrooms, was constructed in a remarkable two weeks at a factory in Sangerfield, just south of Utica. The residence was then transported to Syracuse in two segments, where it was efficiently assembled on-site by crews from Champion Homes. This rapid construction method resulted in a significant cost-saving of approximately 25% compared to traditional new homes in the region.

Affordable Pricing Made Possible Through State Subsidies

Listed for only $175,000, this home comes with substantial financial backing through New York’s MOVE-IN NY program. With a state subsidy of $125,000, qualified buyers can finally transition from renting to home ownership, which is vital for many families in Syracuse where affordable housing options are scarce.

A Critical Housing Solution Amid Growing Demand

The Greater Syracuse Land Bank has underscored the urgent need for affordable housing, especially with the expected influx of new households due to Micron Technology’s upcoming semiconductor fabrication plant in Clay. As Onondaga County struggles to keep up with housing demands—adding fewer than 1,100 new units annually—homes like the one on Maxwell Avenue could play a crucial role in alleviating this housing shortage.

Key Features of the Home on Maxwell Avenue

This newly constructed home boasts:

  • 1,500 square feet of living space
  • An open-concept design with a modern kitchen and central air conditioning
  • Three bedrooms, including a master suite
  • A detached one-car garage with EV charging capabilities

Manufactured homes like this one adhere to strict federal standards, ensuring quality and compliance with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac guidelines, making them eligible for conventional mortgages.

Meeting Diverse Housing Needs

This home caters to various demographics, including young families seeking their first home and seniors preferring single-story living options. To qualify for this affordable housing program, buyers must meet income requirements, with family incomes set at or below 90% of the area median income.

Plans for Future Expansion in the MOVE-IN NY Program

The successful launch of this model home indicates a promising future for additional projects under the MOVE-IN NY program. The land bank plans to request funding to construct 60 more manufactured homes, specifically targeting vacant lots that can accommodate these affordable housing units, all while ensuring they seamlessly blend into existing neighborhoods.

Impact on the Local Housing Market

As the first newly constructed home for sale by the land bank, this initiative highlights the need for straightforward and affordable housing solutions in Syracuse. With ongoing support from the state, locally produced manufactured homes pave the way for a sustainable solution to meet the city’s pressing housing demands.

The land bank’s Executive Director, Katelyn Wright, expressed optimism about the impact of these homes, stating, “We think there is a ton of demand.” With the hopes of achieving a more balanced housing market in Syracuse, the community awaits these next steps toward securing affordable living spaces for all.

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