11 Sep Essex County Land Bank Announces Completion of First Home Rehabilitation Project: Applications Now Open

SOLD!!!

Jay, NY — September 11, 2024 — The Essex County Land Bank is proud to announce the successful completion of our first rehabilitated home in Upper Jay. This marks a significant milestone in our mission to revitalize vacant and underutilized properties and transform them into quality, affordable housing for Essex County residents. The home will be available for showings beginning next week, and we are currently accepting applications.

This project presented unique challenges, including working with a complex septic system, small lot size, a raised foundation, and addressing lead and asbestos abatements. Additionally, during the rehabilitation process, over 8,000 pounds of trash were removed from the property, making it a safer and healthier environment for the new homeowner.

This achievement would not have been possible without the support and partnership of the Essex County Board of Supervisors, County Manager Michael Macarenas, County Health, Safety & Codes Officer Seth Celotti, the Adirondack Foundation, Steven’s Construction, and Town of Jay Supervisor Matt Stanley. We also extend our thanks to Adirondack Explorer for their continued coverage and support, including their video tour of the property before its transformation. You can view the video here.

Nicole Justice Green, Executive Director of the Essex County Land Bank, shared her excitement, saying, “We are incredibly excited to announce the completion of our first rehabilitation project. This is not just a home; it’s a symbol of what can be achieved when our community comes together. A special thank you goes to the Roberts family for their generosity in allowing us to use their property for an easement, which was critical to completing the septic system for this project. And, of course, we are deeply grateful to Steven’s Construction for going above and beyond at every step. Their dedication and craftsmanship made this home a reality, and we couldn’t have done it without their hard work and commitment to excellence. This milestone underscores our mission to transform vacant properties into vibrant, affordable homes for Essex County residents, helping to build a stronger and more resilient community for all.”

The property, with over $300,000 invested in its rehabilitation, will be listed at $150,000. It will be sold with permanent deed restrictions to ensure the long-term affordability of the home. To apply, potential buyers must provide a mortgage pre-approval letter to be added to the waitlist. The home will be listed with 21st Century Adirondacks, and those interested can inquire with their office for appointments starting in the next two weeks: https://adirondacks.c21.com/

Key eligibility requirements for applicants include:

Household income below 200% of the Area Median Income (AMI)

Year-round residency in Essex County

Priority for applicants working within the County

Completion of HUD housing counseling

Permanent deed restrictions include:

The home must be sold to another income-qualified buyer if sold

The home cannot be rented

The Essex County Land Bank retains the first right of buyback

The property must be maintained annually with a maintenance declaration

We are committed to Equal Housing Opportunity and Fair Housing Laws, ensuring non-discriminatory access to all housing opportunities. The Essex County Land Bank does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, national origin, or any other protected class.

For more information on how to apply, visit: Pre-Application for Subsidized Homes.

Contact: Nicole Justice Green
Executive Director
[email protected]
(518) 585-6366

=======================================================================

14 Springfield Rd., Upper Jay – posted 5-17-2023

** Acquisition Cost $0.00 **

Introducing the First Land Bank Home: An Exciting Renovation Opportunity in Upper Jay

We are thrilled to present the first property acquired by the Essex County Land Bank—a diamond in the rough located in the beautiful community of Upper Jay. This historic single-family home, built in 1900, holds immense potential but requires significant renovation work. We are eager to bring this property back to its former glory and transform it into a stunning residence. Thank you to Supervisor Stanley and the Town Board of Jay for your support of this project.

Interior Details (subject to change during the rehabilitation process):

• Bedrooms: This home offers 3-4 bedrooms, providing ample space for future residents to create their own personalized retreats.
• Bathrooms: With 2 bathrooms, there is potential to design functional and comfortable spaces for all.
• Heating: The property currently features forced air heating. Enegry efficent upgardes will be a priority.
• Total Interior Livable Area: The interior spans approximately 1,706 square feet, awaiting a visionary’s touch to maximize its livability.
• Fireplace: A fireplace, though in need of restoration, offers the promise of cozy evenings by the fire.

Property Details:

• Exterior Features: The home’s exterior, currently showing signs of wear, will undergo a complete transformation, breathing new life into its character.
• Lot Size: The property encompasses 2,613 square feet, providing a modest space for outdoor activities and landscaping opportunities.

Construction Details:

• Home Type: This property is a single-family home, offering the potential for a private and personalized living space.
• Construction Materials: The original wood construction presents an opportunity to restore the home’s timeless appeal while incorporating modern upgrades.
• Year Built: With its historical roots dating back to 1900, this house carries a captivating past waiting to be rejuvenated.

Community and Neighborhood Details:

• Location: Situated in the picturesque community of Upper Jay, the home offers a serene and welcoming setting, complemented by the surrounding natural beauty.

As the Essex County Land Bank, we are dedicated to revitalizing vacant properties, and this home represents an exciting renovation opportunity. While it currently requires extensive work, we are committed to transforming it into an affordable home by this autumn. Our team is working diligently to restore and renovate this property, ensuring that it becomes a showcase of exceptional craftsmanship, modern amenities, and timeless charm.

Embrace the potential of this remarkable property and join us on this journey of revitalization. We look forward to unveiling the completed renovation, where this home will once again stand as a testament to our commitment to creating vibrant communities throughout Essex County.