Kent is rolling out homebuyer’s assistance program

Alarmed by the number of single-family homes being converted into rental properties, Kent City Council is hoping to reverse the trend.

City Council on April 15 set aside $50,000 in “housing acquisition assistance” for people willing to buy licensed rental properties and convert them back into owner-occupied homes. At least initially, five $10,000, fully forgivable loans will be available to would-be buyers who comply with all program requirements.

The city’s Community Development Department will administer the program. Community Development Director Bridget Susel said details are still being worked out, but eligible properties are those that have been registered as rentals for at least three years.

“Any property can be a rental, including single-family properties, but the occupancy is limited to no more than two unrelated persons, and all single-family rental properties must have the property registered with the Community Development Department's Rental Licensing Program,” she stated in an email to The Portager.

The program rollout is slated for mid- to late-June, she said. Applications will be available through the Community Development Department.