It’s been just over 3 months since LaPorte County deeded the first batch of Hoosier Homestead Initiative (HHI) properties to Housing Opportunities. HHI or Hoosier Homestead Initiative began as a joint pilot project between the LaPorte County Commissioners, SRT, Inc., and Housing Opportunities with a mission to strengthen neighborhoods and provide homeownership opportunities for people who are financially and physically ready for the challenge of renovating a house and making it their home. Tax sale certificates were assigned to Housing Opportunities, which then took the property to deed in order to offer the homes to HHI participants at a small affordable price.
This program is helping to revitalize the community bringing homes up to code and restoring neighborhoods. HHI is giving an opportunity to individuals who otherwise may not have a chance to own their own home. Individuals like a local veteran, Robert, who was born and raised in LaPorte County and served in the United States Navy. Robert would not have been able to afford owning his own home without the HHI program. This is a great example of our community partnering with a gentleman who served his country proudly. Robert is ready to roll up his sleeves and do some much needed work to bring this house alive again. He is just one of the great success stories of HHI.
Most properties require extensive renovation, and prospective homeowners must commit to bringing the home into a safe living condition, while maintaining the exterior and property in order to conform to city codes and revitalize neighborhoods. All homeowners must reside in the home for a minimum of three years as well, and are required to stay current on taxes, insurance and utilities.
In many ways we are looking for pioneers; someone who is willing to take on the challenge of settling into a bare place and turning it into a new home. For more information about this program please contact Bonnie Kennedy from Housing Opportunities at 219-286-3301 or bkennedy@hoi.help