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

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