After Three-Year Hiatus, Sheriff's Office Resumes Auctions for 1,000+ Tax-Delinquent Properties, Recovering $35 Million for City and Schools
The Philadelphia Sheriff’s Office has resumed auctions for over 1,000 tax-delinquent properties, ending a three-year hiatus caused by a contract dispute that cost the city and school district an estimated $35 million in lost revenue. This resumption raises concerns about homeowner notification and the Sheriff’s Office’s capacity to handle the increased workload, while also impacting community gardens at risk of being sold.
PROA July Bill Track Report: Key Legislative Updates
Discover the Latest Updates in the Proa July Bill Track Report!
Habit for Humanity Volunteer Opportunity!
Would you like to make a real difference in our community? Consider volunteering with Habitat for Humanity. Join today to lend your support and make a positive impact!
For more information contact Deidra at deidrad@habitatphiladelphia.org
PHFA Unveils New Tax Credits and Funding for Affordable Rental Housing Across Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency has announced funding for the construction or rehabilitation of 1,916 rental units, with 1,801 units designated as affordable for households earning at or below 60% of the area median income. This funding, sourced from over $57.5 million in federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, $16.8 million in PennHOMES funding, $17.5 million in National Housing Trust Funds or PHARE funds, and $22.6 million in state housing tax credits, also includes a new $1.8 million Health for Housing Investment initiative that partners with healthcare organizations to improve health outcomes for residents in affordable housing.
Federal Initiatives Aim to Simplify Homebuyer Access to Fixer-Uppers
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has updated its 203(k) rehabilitation loan program to provide homeowners with increased financing and extended timelines for renovations. These changes aim to encourage more people to use the program, which facilitates purchasing and renovating homes through a single mortgage, supporting neighborhood revitalization efforts nationwide.
Audit Reveals Thousands of Delayed Demolitions and Repairs by Philly's L&I
Philadelphia's Department of Licenses & Inspections (L&I) is understaffed and lacks sufficient funding to address thousands of unsafe properties, recovering only a fraction of the costs for necessary demolitions and repairs, according to a report by the City Controller. The report recommends active recruitment for more inspectors, improved systems for tracking and collecting fees, and collaboration with courts to reduce delays in follow-up inspections.