Syracuse’s New Factory-Built Home Tackles Affordable Housing Crisis

Syracuse, NY – A new starter home in Syracuse’s Valley neighborhood aims to address the city’s affordable housing crisis. Built in just two weeks, the home features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and modern amenities, all at a fraction of the cost of conventional homes.

The home at 139 Maxwell Ave. was constructed by Champion Homes in Sangerfield, NY, located 18 miles south of Utica. It was shipped in two pieces in July and assembled on a pre-built slab in Syracuse. The total cost for manufacturing and installation was $300,000, significantly lower than the area’s average home price of around $450,000.

This affordable housing initiative comes as Syracuse prepares for an influx of new residents, thanks to Micron Technology‘s forthcoming semiconductor plant in nearby Clay. The economic boost from Micron is expected to create around 24,000 new households in the region over the next two decades.

The Greater Syracuse Land Bank is selling the newly constructed home for $175,000, aided by a $125,000 taxpayer-funded subsidy from New York State aimed at assisting low and moderate-income buyers. Applicants must meet income guidelines, earing below 90% of the area’s median income.

Governor Kathy Hochul has introduced the $50 million MOVE-IN NY program, which aims to construct 200 factory-built starter homes throughout the state. It is part of a broader strategy to increase affordable housing options amid rising construction costs and material prices.

These manufactured homes conform to federal standards and can qualify for conventional 30-year mortgages, distinguishing them from traditional mobile homes. Titan Homes, a division of Champion Homes, has developed several pilot models, including the one in Syracuse.

Land Bank Executive Director Katelyn Wright emphasized the importance of this program, stating that it provides a move-in ready solution for potential homeowners who may lack renovation skills. Wright also noted the home is suitable for young families and seniors needing single-story living.

As the program unfolds, the land bank plans to purchase and install 60 additional manufactured homes under the MOVE-IN NY initiative, looking to integrate them into neighborhoods with existing single-story homes.

Wright remains optimistic about the demand for these homes, given the ongoing challenges in the housing market. This initiative represents a crucial step toward resolving affordability issues in Syracuse.