IMAGINE HOW OUR COMMUNITY WILL THRIVE

Instead of a homebuyer process that fosters confusion and reluctance in potential homeowners, we adopt one where more homebuyers are empowered with knowledge and resources, confidently navigating their homebuyer journey. With the right financial support, the necessary expenses such as down payments, inspection, and insurance costs could be less of a burden to homebuyers. With expanded education opportunities and shared stories of successes, we can inspire curiosity, confidence, and trust in the process.

With developers motivated to increase the supply of homes the competitiveness of the Greater Rochester housing market could be curbed. Instead, more homebuyers could have their pick of options that are controlled for quality, location, and access to resources. By maximizing the volume of home purchase options, renters could participate in a housing market suited to their needs.

Picture homeowners having the funds to maintain and stay in their homes, with access to resources for renovations and ongoing support to face any bumps in their homeowner journey. We know that a neighborhood that is well-maintained and cared for leads to increased home value appreciation, higher quality schools, and greater rates of wealth creation among homeowners. By cultivating support to take care of the neighborhoods in Greater Rochester, all communities are strengthened.

Together, we can turn this vision into reality. Join us…

AREAS OF FOCUS FOR IMPACT

Create demand

Expanding homebuyer education programs, offering alternative credit assessment options, granting down payment assistance and increasing awareness of success stories within our community represent a few ways to create demand.

Decades of redlining have created barriers that limit homebuyer confidence, trust in the lending process, and the demand for homes. Empowering community members to become homeowners addresses these critical issues and offers long-term benefits. Homeownership provides a sustainable alternative to the demand for rental units and contributes to the overall health and prosperity of our community.

Increase supply

Facilitating the development of affordable housing units through loans and credit enhancement for developers, offering zero or low-cost loans for the acquisition or rehabilitation of homes, and supporting zoning expansion can increase the number of available, quality homes.

The Rochester metro area has one of the most competitive housing markets in the nation, making it tough for renters to become homeowners. Without enough affordable homes, Black renters are more likely to remain renters, even if they could otherwise buy a home. Increasing the number of home purchase options helps renters enter a market that suits their needs.

assist homeowners

Providing savings matches for home renovations, offering grants at the block level to improve curb appeal, and expanding post-purchase homeowner education are a few ways homeowners can be supported and encouraged to stay in their homes.

Increasing access to resources for homeowners sustains the value of homes. Renovation loans help individuals stay in quality homes and increase their personal wealth. Post-purchase education and delinquency-avoidance programs support financial stability and homeowner’s ability to successfully manage their mortgage obligations.

strengthen communities

Supporting programs that elevate school ratings and strengthen community organizations enhances the entire community. Grants at the block level improve curb appeal of both individual homes and shared spaces within neighborhoods can increase the value of neighborhoods.

Wealth creation is tied to home value appreciation, which is influenced by neighborhood value. The quality of schools and perception of public safety hinder the purchase of homes that are otherwise affordable for a family. By improving schools and neighborhoods, we can make our community one where people want to live and raise their families.