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Tag: APP Latest Housing Stories

  • Grant limit for home improvements in North Greenwood area increases

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    CLEARWATER, Fla. — Clearwater City Council members recently approved a boost to the North Greenwood CRA Residential Exterior Improvement Grant Program.

    What You Need To Know: 

    • The home improvement grant limit in North Greenwood increased to $25,000 from $20,000

    • The grant aims to help residents with rising construction costs

    • Homeowners use the grants for crucial repairs like roofing, plumbing, and HVAC systems


    The new limit is $25,000, up from the previous $20,000.

    “Well, $20,000 might have been a good amount a few years ago,” said Jesus Nino, Executive Director of Clearwater CRA. “But now with construction prices going up, it’s just a little bit more difficult to have something; for instance, a whole roof replaced for $20,000.”

    Homeowners have put grant money toward a variety of repairs and renovations, including: a new roof, windows, replacing heating and air conditioning systems, painting and other home repair safety features.

    Rosemary Gainey has lived in the North Greenwood area for more than 40 years. She received $20,000 in grant money and used it to replace her fence and plumbing.

    “Because the piping was so old … it could just explode anywhere over the house,” Gainey said. “I just think that the more we put into our community, the more the community will thrive and overall, look better. I’m just over the moon, is that what you call it, and I love it.”

    Learn more about the program and view the application form by clicking here.

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    Melissa Eichman

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  • Former lumber yard site to offer affordable housing in St. Petersburg

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — A new affordable housing community is coming to St. Petersburg’s Warehouse Arts District, and city leaders say a state law designed to speed up housing development helped make it possible.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Fairfield Avenue Apartments — a 264-unit community — officially broke ground Wednesday on land with more than 50 years of local history

    • City officials say the project is moving forward using Florida’s House Bill 1339, which allows qualifying affordable housing developments to be approved administratively on industrial-zoned land, significantly reducing approval timelines

    • City leaders say the Fairfield Avenue Apartments will add hundreds of affordable housing units within close proximity to downtown jobs and transit once construction is completed


    The Fairfield Avenue Apartments — a 264-unit community — officially broke ground Wednesday on land with more than 50 years of local history.

    The property once housed Tibbetts Lumber and, before that, Cox Lumber — businesses that helped build much of the surrounding city.

    “My grandfather immigrated here in the 1940s, (and) had bought a little tiny lumber company,” said Jeff Brandes of the Tibbetts-Brandes family. “(Those businesses) really grew this community and grew along with it and helped build many of the houses that you and I live in today.”

    Over the years, the site has served several purposes — starting as an orange grove, later becoming a Seaboard rail line, and eventually operating as a lumber yard. Now, it will be transformed into housing intended for working residents priced out of living near their jobs.

    Brandes said conversations with local hospitals highlighted the need.

    “I was talking to the leadership of the hospitals and at All Children’s in Bayfront and talking about how what a struggle they were finding for housing some of their employees that were making $20 or $30 an hour, but they still couldn’t find a place to live anywhere near downtown Saint Petersburg,” he said.

    City officials say the project is moving forward using Florida’s House Bill 1339, which allows qualifying affordable housing developments to be approved administratively on industrial-zoned land, significantly reducing approval timelines.

    “Now, the state passed legislation a few years ago to permit the development of affordable housing on industry zoned land like this. And St. Pete, again, was the first city to take advantage of that opportunity,” said Mayor Ken Welch.

    Brandes, who founded the Florida Policy Project, said seeing the project move from policy to reality is meaningful.

    “Well, it’s exciting to be able to talk to people, not somebody who’s theoretical, but who’s doing it practically, too,” he said. “I mean, it’s great to be part of that process. And knowing the struggles of putting a development like this together, but also the looks on people’s faces when they get their keys for the for the for their apartments. That’s what I’m really excited about.”

    City leaders say the Fairfield Avenue Apartments will add hundreds of affordable housing units within close proximity to downtown jobs and transit once construction is completed.

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    Fadia Patterson

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  • Property tax relief measures in Florida could help buyers and sellers, if passed

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    ORLANDO, Fla. — Florida lawmakers are considering several proposals that, if voters approve, would potentially reduce property taxes for homeowners across the state. While it’s not clear which proposal lawmakers might choose, any reduction in property taxes could have an effect on the housing market.

    What You Need To Know

    • Florida lawmakers are reviewing proposals to reduce property taxes

    • An Orlando Realtor says lower property taxes could help buyers afford more expensive homes

    • Proposed measures will be decided by voters in November


    Sayerlen Cardier says her days of renting are hopefully coming to an end. The neurosurgery nurse practitioner says she’s ready to own her own home.

    “A place where my family can meet and I know it’s my place,” said Cardier.

    But what kind of home depends on what she can afford. If she doesn’t have to pay as much on property taxes, she might be able to spend more on a home.

    “Would give you more money in your pocket to distribute, even buying a better place, or a better location, or even paying more on your principal so you can get rid of your debt a little sooner,” said Cardier.

    Cardier’s real-estate agent, Rosa Hughes, says less money spent on property taxes means buyers have more money to potentially spend on a higher-priced home, or renovations.

    “The money they’re not paying in property taxes they can use for improvements, funds they can save for the future, a lot of things,” said Hughes.

    Luckily for Cardier, in the last year, it’s already become more of a buyer’s market. 

    Data collected by the Orlando Regional Realtor Association shows home prices in Central Florida have cooled off in the last year. After median prices continued to rise over the course of 2024, prices were mostly flat year-over-year in December 2025, with the median price of a home being just above $380,000.

    Hughes says if property taxes are lowered, buyers may be able to spend more on a home, which could lead to a resurgence in home values.

    “If we reduce property taxes, the buyer has more of a chance to go up in the price, that means the value of the property will go up,” said Hughes.

    That could be good for sellers whose homes appraise at a higher value.

    About to jump back into homeownership, Cardier says she’s encouraged by the possibilities Florida lawmakers are considering.

    “Would be great that somebody sees some sort of relief,” said Cardier. “And if it’s for everybody, that would be wonderful.”

    If any of the property tax measures are passed by the state legislature, they will be put on the ballot for voters to decide in November.

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    Jeff Allen

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  • Average age of first-time homebuyers at all-time high

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    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — The National Association of Realtors reports the average age of first-time homebuyers is at an all-time high at age 40. The association also says the share of first-time homebuyers has hit a historic low of 21%.

    Twenty-year-old Christina Copelan is bucking that national trend. She bought her Clearwater home a few months ago when she was 19.

    “It feels really great, like, I am very proud of myself,” said Copelan.

    Graduating from high school at age 15, she said becoming a homeowner was an early goal. She works as a personal assistant for a property manager and a financial services company and started saving soon after graduation.

    “The biggest thing was living at home with my parents. I think because I didn’t have many bills. But yeah, really, really saving and being super frugal,” said Copelan, who was able to close on her home in a couple of years. She and her family are now renovating it themselves.

    “Instead of just buying it and living in it. I get to, you know, put something into it instead of just occupying it,” said Copelan, who enjoys adding her personal touch.

    She is not the norm, according to recent numbers released from the National Association of Realtors.

    The association adds that the all-time high age of 40 for first-time homebuyers can create a trickle-down effect on personal finances.

    “Delayed or denied homeownership until age 40 instead of 30 can mean losing roughly $150,000 in equity on a typical starter home,” said Shannon McGahn, NAR Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy Officer.

    Liane Jamason has been in real estate for 18 years and has responded to the shift.

    “I think it’s because we’re having some affordability problems and also interest rates being a little bit higher may have skewed that number a little bit,” said Jamason.

    The broker owns Corcoran Dwellings in St. Petersburg, and while she acknowledges the national trend, she said that she and her agents are seeing a different trend in local first-time buyers.

    “We’re seeing really closer to low twenties to low thirties here,” said Jamason.

    “I mean it’s a young vibe here and especially in downtown St Pete, so I think people love that and really want to get in while they can.”

    And with a market Jamason describes as steady, buyers of all ages are aiming to get closer to closing on a home of their own.

    “It’s very it’s very cool to tell other people like my age that is possible,” said Copelan, who is also a landlord and rents the other half of her duplex. She hopes to inspire the younger generation of future homeowners.

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    Melissa Eichman

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  • Tampa housing advocates call for return of landlord registry amid rising rents

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    TAMPA, Fla. — A local housing justice advocacy group is calling on the city of Tampa to bring back a landlord registry, arguing it would give renters more transparency and protection in an increasingly competitive housing market.

    Florida Rising said the tool would allow tenants to identify property owners, track repeat code violations and avoid unsafe living conditions — information, they said, is especially critical as rents rise and affordable housing becomes harder to find.

    What You Need To Know

    • Florida Rising is calling on the city of Tampa to bring back a landlord registry, arguing it would give renters more transparency and protection in an increasingly competitive housing market

    • For years, Tampa required landlords to register rental properties through a rental certificate program. That policy was repealed on May 4, 2023. City officials confirm property owners are no longer required to formally register each rental unit, though landlords must still obtain a city business tax receipt to legally operate

    • According to a 2025 statewide rental market study from the University of Florida’s Shimberg Center for Housing Studies, demand for housing has outpaced supply

    • Florida Rising argues a landlord registry would not solve the housing crisis on its own, but could give renters more confidence when choosing where to live and who to rent from


    “Renters need to know who they are renting from because they are signing a contract,” said Robin Lockett, regional director of Florida Rising Tampa Bay.

    Lockett, who also serves on the city’s Affordable Housing Advisory Committee, said a registry could help renters evaluate landlords the same way they research other major financial decisions.

    “How do they treat the the clients or the customers? What eviction rate do they have? Where do you know everything? How clean do they keep the apartment complex? Are there complaints about it? Have those complaints been verified?” she said.

    Registry repealed in 2023

    For years, Tampa required landlords to register rental properties through a rental certificate program. That policy was repealed on May 4, 2023.

    City officials confirm property owners are no longer required to formally register each rental unit, though landlords must still obtain a city business tax receipt to legally operate.

    Lockett said removing the registry weakened accountability.

    “They used to have a business registry, but there is no way to enforce it,” she said.

    Rental market pressure growing statewide

    Florida Rising’s push comes as housing pressures continue to mount across the state.

    According to a 2025 statewide rental market study from the University of Florida’s Shimberg Center for Housing Studies, Florida added more than one million households between 2019 and 2023, including nearly 200,000 new renter households. During that same period, the state gained more than 240,000 multifamily units.

    But demand has outpaced supply, driving median rent from $1,238 to $1,719, a 39% increase.

    Lockett said the consequences are visible on the streets.

    “To be honest, because of the housing market and the foreclosures and so forth, I see a lot more people homeless,” she said.

    Advocates say registry would empower renters

    Florida Rising argues a landlord registry would not solve the housing crisis on its own, but could give renters more confidence when choosing where to live and who to rent from.

    “I think with the people that are able to rent. The first step is for them to find out who they’re renting from and for them to make a decision as to whether they fit in regards to that business transaction,” Lockett said.

    The group said it plans to raise the issue with city leaders as Tampa continues to grapple with growth, affordability and housing stability.

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    Fadia Patterson

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  • New housing program to help youth who have aged out of the foster care system

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — A new housing project is taking shape with a mission beyond bricks and mortar.

    A local nonprofit has officially broken ground on a development designed to support young adults aging out of the foster care system.

    The project aims to provide not just housing, but stability and a pathway to independence.

    What You Need To Know

    • Harbor 58 is a nonprofit aimed at helping youth who aged out of foster care 

    • The organization held a ground breaking ceremony last month for its new housing program, which includes six duplexes housing 12 people and a community center
    • The project underway is on the property of Oasis Church on Lorraine Road and organizers hope to finish the housing project by the spring of 2027

    This is a new environment for Airanna Gibbons. But there’s one thing that’s always helped her during times of uncertainty: coloring.

    “It relaxes me and makes me less nervous,” she said.

    For Gibbons, it’s been a coping mechanism as she’s been in and out of foster care since she was four years old.

    “I ended up getting taken away from my biological parents a couple days before my birthday, and it was very stressful. There’s a lot of emotions, but I ended up moving from home to home, and none of them really enjoyed me or liked me. And so, I ended up going through about seven or eight homes before I ended up getting adopted,” she said.

    Around the age of 14, Gibbons said her life changed again.

    “I ended up having some problems, and I ended up going into a mental hospital. My adoptive parents decided that they didn’t want me. Then I ended up going into a group home,” she said.

    Now, the 19-year-old is in a new home.

    It’s an 18-month-long housing program with the nonprofit Harbor 58.

    “I guess it was finally home, I guess, if that makes sense. So, yeah,” she said.

    The mission of Harbor 58 is to help young people aging out of foster care by providing resources and support.

    In Gibbons’ case, that includes the opportunity to learn how to live more independently with the help of a career coach and other resources.

    The goal is for participants to eventually be able to live on their own.

    Alisha Pavacich is the program director.

    “Manatee County has a lot of kids that are in foster care and several that age out every single year. And there’s no real space for those kids to step into,” she said.

    The organization recently broke ground on its new housing complex, which will include six duplexes housing 12 people in total, along with a community center.

    “The statistics for youth aging out of foster care are not great. A lot of kids end up in jail, not graduating high school, or unfortunately, being trafficked. We just want to change that narrative and give them a more supportive and brighter future,” she said.

    Gibbons said she feels included and comfortable in this space. So much so, she said she’s looking forward to one day publishing a children’s book she wrote, inspired by her life experiences, and working towards becoming a child advocate.

    The project underway is on the property of Oasis Church on Lorraine Road.

    Organizers hope to finish the housing project by the spring of 2027.

    Currently, the organization is housing three people and hope to expand that to more when the new facility opens in 2027.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Largo residents raise alarm over apartment plan on former landfill site

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    LARGO, Fla. — A developer is seeking approval for a new apartment community in Largo — a request that has reignited debate over the site’s history as a former construction and debris landfill.

    Neighbors and Pinellas County planners have repeatedly flagged the “brownfield’s” concerns, saying the 18-acre site at 13400 Pine Street could be contaminated. 

    What You Need To Know

    • A developer is seeking approval for a new apartment community in Largo — a request that has reignited debate over the site’s history as a former construction and debris landfill

    • Neighbors and Pinellas County planners have repeatedly flagged the “brownfield’s” concerns, saying the 18-acre site at 13400 Pine Street could be contaminated

    • A cancer survivor who has lived in the neighborhood for more than 50 years, Marva Perry said she’s worried about possible environmental risks

    • Hill Ward Henderson represents Green Energy for North America, LLC; Attorney Katie Cole shared the following statement with Spectrum News, saying in part: “There has been extensive testing on the site and no hazardous materials have been found.”


    Master gardener Marva Perry has spent over 30 years tending the flowers and produce in her yard.

    “I’m able to build a salad straight out of my yard,” she said.

    Perry said her garden played a key role in her journey through breast cancer.

    “It keeps you living because you need to be able to take care of it,” said Perry. “When you ask yourself where did God first put man, it was in the garden. That’s where you go to find peace.”

    But she said what could happen just blocks from her home is unsettling.

    “The brownfield is located less than 500 feet from the house,” said Perry. 

    The site, which was once used for construction and debris disposal, is now being considered for an 1,800-unit apartment community.

    “We would sit on the porch and see what they were doing over there,” Perry said. “We knew, everybody knew, but everybody did not understand the effect of what would happen when they start filling it in.”

    A cancer survivor who has lived in the neighborhood for more than 50 years, Perry said she’s worried about possible environmental risks. She and other residents attended and planned to raise those concerns during a Nov. 18 Pinellas County Commission meeting, but the public hearing was postponed.

    Largo residents sitting in at a Pinellas County Commission meeting voicing concerns about a site for a planned apartment complex. (Spectrum News/Fadia Patterson)

    “What concerns me the most is how (are) they going to clean it up? How deep are they going to go?” she added. 

    Green Energy for North America, LLC is represented by Hill Ward Henderson. Attorney Katie Cole shared the following statement with Spectrum News, saying in part:

    “Our client is proceeding with all due diligence as it relates to the suitability of development of the site and such diligence will not be completed for a few months. We are currently working to get the proper zoning in place to allow for the development of the property if and when the developer is comfortable that the property can be developed. Historically, the site was used for construction debris disposal and the diligence relates to investigations regarding the existing debris. There has been extensive testing on the site and no hazardous materials have been found. Our client will continue to test and conform to all applicable regulations and requirements to ensure a safe development.”

    If approved, this would be the second affordable housing project within blocks of Perry’s home.

    “It takes me sometimes five minutes to back out of my driveway,” she said.

    Perry said the new proposal does not match the character or capacity of the neighborhood.

    “We want our community to be safe. We want our community to have affordable housing. But there is a place for it, and two back-to-backs is just not the place for it,” she said.

    She said more housing should not come at the cost of public health or community stability.

    The next hearing is scheduled for Jan. 20.

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    Fadia Patterson

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  • Pinellas County opts out of Live Local Act tax exemption

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — For the second time since Florida passed the Live Local Act, Pinellas County leaders have voted to opt out of part of the law’s affordable housing property tax exemption — a move supporters say protects local land-use control, while critics argue it does little to help workers struggling with rising rent.

    What You Need To Know

    • For the second time since Florida passed the Live Local Act, Pinellas County leaders have voted to opt out of part of the law’s affordable housing property tax exemption
    • It’s a move that supporters say protects local land-use control, while critics argue it does little to help workers struggling with rising rent

    • County officials point to a dedicated funding source through the Penny for Pinellas tax, which has allocated $98 million for housing over the past decade

    • The opt-out applies only to the 80–120% AMI tax exemption for the 2025 tax year


    The unanimous vote from the Pinellas County Commission removes a tax incentive for developers building units priced for households earning 80 to 120% of the area median income (AMI).

    County officials say that range is too close to market-rate housing and does not address the needs of the county’s most rent-burdened residents.

    Service industry employees, including hospitality, restaurant and gig workers, make up a significant portion of St. Petersburg and Clearwater’s economy. Many say the high cost of housing is pushing workers farther away from their jobs, straining an industry already dealing with labor shortages.

    William Kilgore, a bike courier and advocate with the St. Petersburg Tenants Union, says the term “affordable” is often misleading.

    “When you use the term ‘affordable,’ it’s a subjective term,” Kilgore said. “What’s affordable for me may not be affordable for someone else. The vast majority of folks who are rent-burdened are not benefiting from the housing produced by these tax incentives.”

    Kilgore said workers such as hotel housekeepers, gig workers and restaurant employees continue to struggle to keep up with rising rents despite the passage of the Live Local Act in 2023.

    Commission Chair Brian Scott said the Live Local Act preempts local governments’ ability to control where large, high-density developments can be built, especially in areas where industrial and employment land needs to be protected.

    “Eighty to 120 percent AMI is basically market-rate housing,” Scott said. “There’s no real need for an exemption for market-rate housing. Live Local also preempts us from making land-use decisions because developers can come in and build by right.”

    Scott said the county is putting its focus on supporting residents with incomes below 80% AMI, which he said represents the county’s greatest housing need.

    County officials point to a dedicated funding source through the Penny for Pinellas tax, which has allocated $98 million for housing over the past decade. Commissioners said they are also identifying surplus county-owned parcels for future affordable housing development.

    The opt-out applies only to the 80–120% AMI tax exemption for the 2025 tax year.

    Officials said the decision helps ensure that land-use decisions, particularly those regarding high-rise development, remain under local control, while still allowing the county to target funding toward the lowest-income households.

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    Fadia Patterson

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  • What hurricane laws mean for vacation rentals in North Carolina

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    Getting into the vacation rental business started off as a necessity for Ashley Harkrader.

    “I became a single mom in 2015, and I needed to figure out how to take care of my daughter,” said Harkrader of Pretty Stays CLT.

    She now has almost 100 properties nationwide and most of them are in North Carolina.

    What You Need To Know

    • North Carolina last year received about 40 million visitors from across the country, making it the fifth-most-visited state, according to the North Carolina Department of Commerce

    • With an increase in tourism, property owners like Ashley Harkrader say it’s important that state laws protect visitors during hurricane season 

    • She says she knows first-hand why these laws are essential because one of her properties in Boone was destroyed by Hurricane Helene 


    According to the North Carolina Department of Commerce, last year there were around 40 million visitors from across the country, ranking North Carolina the fifth-most-visited state. 

    With an increase in tourism, property owners like Harkrader think it’s important that state laws protect visitors during hurricane season.

    “Because I think we all need to care about each other in situations that none of us can control, and I think that gives us the ability to create a better rapport. So that way, when the time is appropriate for them to travel back to you, they know that you truly believe in their safety and vice versa,” Harkrader said.

    The North Carolina Vacation Rental Act says renters must follow mandatory evacuation orders and they are entitled to a prorated refund if they do have to evacuate. There is an exception if someone opts out of insurance that covers the risk of evacuation. If a vacation rental can’t be delivered as promised, renters must be refunded or offered a comparable property. 

    “I encourage those individuals who are entering into short-term leases to make sure that they’re reading the leases and what all of their rights and responsibilities are under the lease and paying particular attention to the insurance coverage. Of course, any of the mandatory evacuation orders that may be put in place during this hurricane season,” said Kristen Fetter of the North Carolina Real Estate Commission. 

    Harkrader says she knows first-hand why these laws are so essential since one of her properties in Boone was destroyed by Helene. 

    “We actually had a family that was going to be staying there, but we obviously refunded and gave them their money back just because we didn’t know what was going to happen,” Harkrader said.

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    Arin Cotel-Altman

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  • Raleigh Housing Authority launches new department to support families in need

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    RALEIGH, N.C. — Finding a new home and making the transition can be challenging for families in public housing.

    The Raleigh Housing Authority has launched a new department, Resident Services, with a goal to better support them.

    What You Need To Know

    • More than 46,000 residents live in public housing across North Carolina, with an average household income of just over $15,000 a year

    • The Raleigh Housing Authority’s new Resident Services Department helps families transition to stable housing while connecting them to health care, food assistance and community resources

    • Finding enough available units and working with landlords who accept housing vouchers is a challenge

    • The authority is creating a self-sufficiency program focused on career and personal development to boost long-term economic independence



    Washing dishes in your own kitchen or having enough space for your children to play is something that some may take for granted, but for families like Tequita Jarman’s, it’s the biggest blessing.

    Jarman struggled with homelessness for years but found stability through the housing authority.

    “Them girls in they own rooms and they own spaces and they created their own spaces within their space? I like and love that,” Jarman said.

    The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development reports more than 46,000 residents live in public housing in North Carolina, with the average household income just over $15,000 a year. For many families, navigating the housing system is overwhelming, and access to support can be limited.

    That’s why the Raleigh Housing Authority has launched Resident Services, a new department designed to guide families through difficult transitions and connect them with critical resources.

    Relocation manager Sharon Sneed says her team focuses on helping families move into affordable, safe housing while offering additional support.

    “We are a team that comes in to support our families in transitioning from one location to the next… helping in supporting them, ensuring that they find housing that is affordable and decent and safe,” Sneed said.

    The department also works to connect residents with health care, food assistance and community programs, aiming to improve stability and quality of life. But the challenges are steep — from a lack of available units to landlords unwilling to accept housing vouchers.

    “When you have a family with the large size, sometimes that’s kind of hard for them to locate housing that they want, that they can afford, or if they can afford it with the voucher. Sometimes you have trouble finding the … landlords that will accept the assistance,” Sneed said.

    Despite these challenges, Jarman says it’s important to keep moving forward.

    “It’s going to be hard. It’s going to make you cry. You’re going to have moments where you had to cry when the kids ain’t looking, you know? But you gotta keep pushing,” she said.

    The housing authority says it is continuing to look for community partners, landlords and properties to expand its efforts. The agency is also developing a new program to help residents build self-sufficiency through personal and career development.

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    Ryan Hayes-Owens

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  • 6 unit transitional housing complex nearing completion in Clermont

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    CLERMONT, Fla. — Staff at New Beginnings of Central Florida in Clermont are working on move-in ready transitional housing, called New Beginnings Village.

    What You Need To Know

    • New Beginnings of Central Florida is finishing up construction on its transitional housing complex

    • Each unit is 670 square feet and has two bedrooms and one bathroom

    • Families do not have to pay to participate, but they have to participate in the program, which can last between six and nine months

    • Construction is expected to finish next month, then applications will open


    Community Relations Manager Jeremy Elliott said staff will connect residents with services as part of their Helping Hands program.

    He said there has been an 18% increase in the number of families in Lake County who are experiencing homelessness for the first time in the past year.

    “They can really focus on serving themselves — working on their things that are going to create longevity, but also savings and financial literacy,” Elliott said.

    The housing is conveniently located at the back of the property, next to the thrift shop.

    Elliott said the goal is to create a safe space in each of their six homes. Each unit is 670 square feet and has two bedrooms, one bathroom, a kitchen, living space, and an in-unit washer and dryer.

    He told Spectrum News it costs the nonprofit about $22,000 per family, but families do not pay anything as they participate in the program, which can last between six and nine months.

    “You’ve got to want it to be here, because it’s strenuous everyday doing that coursework, really working on yourself,” Elliott said. “It’s a rapid program so that we are able to get you into affordable housing, which is the next step, and open the door for the next family.”

    Elliott said construction is expected to wrap up next month. The total project has cost $1.4 million and was supported by multiple partners, who provided funding and donations to furnish the homes.

    The mission is close to his heart, as Elliott went through the program himself.

    “Being able to come back and walk and see someone else go through that process is emphatically the best gift I could ever see,” said Elliott.

    Applications are not live yet. Staff plan to open them closer to the construction completion date in October.

    Eligibility criteria:

    • Must be 18 or older
    • We serve single women, single mothers, and families (must be married)
    • Children ages 5-12 must be in school (no virtual)
    • Cannot have severe psychiatric issues that would contraindicate communal living with other residents and young children in a residential setting
    • Cannot be taking any controlled medications-prescribed or not
    • Must have a minimum of 6 months abstinence from substance abuse and /or be directly transferred/referred from another residential program
    • Must be willing and physically able to work 40 hours weekly, as this is a work therapy program
    • Willing and able to complete Life Skills Training Curriculum
    • Must be willing to attend church weekly and actively participate in Bible Study and Discipleship Program
    • No active warrants
    • No criminal history of murder, arson, battery, and sexual offenses (Level II)

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    Emma Delamo

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  • Lakeland approves plans to demolish affordable housing complex

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    LAKELAND, Fla. — The Lakeland Housing Authority is one step closer to bringing new affordable housing for seniors to the area.

    What You Need To Know

    • Lakeland commissioners approved plans to tear down a 40-unit affordable housing complex, which has been part of the community since the 1970s
    • The Lakeland Housing Authority plans to replace Carrington Place with a 100-unit senior housing complex as part of a 10-year plan

    • Tenants like Sameria Timmons worry about being displaced, saying current families should benefit from redevelopment


    City commissioners recently approved the agency’s plans for the development, which include demolishing Carrington Place, an affordable multifamily housing complex that has been part of the Lakeland community since the 1970s.

    For the past 14 years, resident Sameria Timmons has spent much of her time outside tending to her garden. The front of her apartment may be small, but for Timmons, keeping it tidy is one way she has made Carrington Place feel like home — a home she says she never thought she would be forced to leave.

    “For people with kids, what are we supposed to do? I have two jobs and I just can’t up and still leave,” she said. “What about somebody who’s living off of disability because they’re sick, what are they supposed to do?”

    The mother of seven is one of many tenants with questions after learning about the Lakeland Housing Authority’s plan to demolish the 40-unit affordable housing complex. While she agrees the community is long overdue for a facelift, she believes current residents should be the ones to benefit from the improvements.

    “If (you’re going to) uplift the community with something new, you wouldn’t of made it an old person’s home,” Timmons said. “You would’ve built this and made it back to where we stand. If you want to build something new, you can build something new, but these people have been out here for years. A lot of people have been out here for years. You can at least put us back in the community then.”

    Ben Stevenson, president and CEO of the Lakeland Housing Authority, said his team is looking to replace Carrington Place with affordable senior housing to help meet the need in the city’s northwest side. He said the potential project is part of the agency’s 10-year plan, which is expected to bring in more than $200 million in redevelopment.

    “We have some other projects to address the multi-family need,” he said. “We said, ‘Let’s go with Carrington Place and make it a senior development,’ because now that the city allows you to go up multiple stories, three/four stories, we think we can do a 100-unit senior complex over there.”

    Stevenson said he understands change can be difficult, but his team will do everything they can to help residents relocate. That includes providing a list of housing options.

    “And we will try to have a combination of let’s say, relocation vouchers from the federal government,” he said. “We’ll also give relocation assistance like paying their security deposit, transfer fees. Also, provide transportation for the families that want to look at all the apartments.”

    In the meantime, Stevenson said the agency has been hosting monthly meetings to keep families informed. But Timmons and her neighbors say that so far, there has only been one.

    “So we’re still going to be clueless until they have the second meeting,” she said.

    The Lakeland Housing Authority still needs approval from the state of Florida and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) before it can move forward with the project. Stevenson said he expects to break ground at the Carrington Place site within the next year or two.

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    Alexis Jones

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  • Study shows Lakeland ranked highest in the nation for foreclosures

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    LAKELAND, Fla. — While the country saw a drop in foreclosures last year, recent data shows Florida’s rates jumped to the highest in the nation. The metropolitan area with the most filings was the city of Lakeland.

    What You Need To Know

    • Recent data from Attom reveals that Lakeland had the highest foreclosure rate in the country in 2024

    • Real estate broker Bob Miller attributes the high foreclosure rates mainly to skyrocketing insurance premiums

    • Miller advises homeowners to shop for new insurance, contact their bank and consider reaching out to real estate attorneys or licensed brokers for help to avoid foreclosure


    According to the real estate analytics firm ATTOM, one in every 172 Lakeland homes was foreclosed on in 2024. The statistics didn’t come as a surprise to real estate broker Bob Miller, who knows firsthand how it feels to lose a home.

    “Back in 2008, when the market crashed, we had actually lost our house,” he said. “What got me involved is we had enough money to pay the mortgage, but the attorney’s fees had gotten so high that I really felt it was unfair and really made me want to get a part of the system and figure out how to help other people.”

    Miller points to factors like high interest rates and the impact of Polk County’s growing population on prices as reasons for the filings. But he says the number one contributor is insurance premiums.

    “They’re just getting totally out of hand. Most people are seeing an increase in their payments between 30 to 50% of their monthly payments, and people just can’t take it anymore,” he said.

    Rather than giving up, Miller advises homeowners to shop around for insurance. If that doesn’t work, he says to pick up the phone and call your bank.

    “When the bank has no knowledge, they’re forced to hire an attorney,” Miller said. “They’re forced to get someone to contact you. And once the attorney gets involved, those payments are going to be 50%, if not 100%, as much as you owe the bank.”

    Miller also recommends contacting a real estate attorney or licensed broker if you need help. Most importantly, he says to remember there are options.

    “The worst thing for you to do is sit there and let the bank move on you. They don’t want your house, but if you force their hand, they have no option,” he said.

    Miller is confident the city will bounce back from the high foreclosure rates. He assures that the current numbers aren’t as high as they were in 2008.

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    Alexis Jones

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  • Florida real estate agent talks dropping mortgage rates

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    BRADENTON, Fla. — One of the biggest steps in a person’s life is purchasing a home, but when mortgage rates are high, that can be quite difficult.

    For the last seven weeks, those rates have dropped.

    What You Need To Know

    • Mortgage rates have dropped seven weeks in a row

    • There are more homes on the market compared to last year

    • Rates are still higher than what they were a few years ago


    For seven years, real estate agent Stephanie Seacat has shown off all sorts of homes to prospective buyers and said there are always changes in the industry.

    “As those rates continue to go down, there’s going to be that frenzy again,” said Seacat. “Now is the time to buy and refinance down the road.”

    According to Mortgage Buyer Freddie Mac, the average rate for a 30-year mortgage in January was just over 7%. This week, it is 6.63%.

    Even with rates dropping, mortgage rates are still quite a bit higher than what they were just a few years ago.

    There are other changes Seacat is noticing, such as fewer people at open houses.

    Last year, she would expect 10-15 people to come out, now 5-10 would be a good day.

    “I put another home on the market last week and we had about seven come through,” she said. “It also depends on price points of the home.”

    According to Realtor.com, there are more houses available to choose from for buyers compared to last year.

    Seacat said she’s seeing different types of buyers.

    “What we’re seeing is there’s a lot of local movement that’s happening in the market meaning locals are starting to buy and homes are starting to go pending so that’s a new trend that started to happen this year,” she said.

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    Matt Lackritz

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  • Lakewood Ranch man settles on renting vs. buying home

    Lakewood Ranch man settles on renting vs. buying home

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    LAKEWOOD RANCH, Fla. — After a Lakewood Ranch man spent more than a year looking for a house to buy due to a rising apartment rent, he’s now chosen to rent a home instead, saying prices are still too high.

    What You Need To Know

    • Mike Bean started looking to buy a home at the beginning of last year when his apartment rent increased, but settled on renting a home due to high prices

    • Lei Wedge, an associate professor of finance at USF, says she looked at the data in Manatee County and believes that right now, renting a house could make sense for some people

    • While Bean would still like to buy a house eventually, he’s content for now

    Mike Bean started looking to buy a home at the beginning of last year when his apartment rent increased by 13% from when he moved in during December 2021.  

    He says his rent was about $2,241 a month, which didn’t include other expenses like utilities.

    But when he found a house for rent, Mike did the math and said renting the house was actually a better deal for him than renting an apartment.

    Since then, he has gone from living in a 700-square-foot apartment to living in a house with more than 2,000 square feet.

    “If you take what I was paying in the apartment and add the storage fees, yes, the house is a little higher in price, but not significantly so,” said Bean. “So, it’s a definite benefit for me to be in a much bigger place and also make use of my furniture and enjoy living in a very nice home.”

    The extra space allowed him to get his belongings out of storage, cutting down on the money he was paying every month due to the lack of space in the apartment. Now, he can bring some of his most treasured items back into his life.

    “It’s great… This is my mother’s piano. It’s part of my family. This is the history of my family. My mother had this piano for years,” he said.

    Lei Wedge, an associate professor of finance at USF, says she looked at the data in Manatee County and believes that right now, renting a house could make sense for some people.

    “Active homes on the market have very high listing prices in Manatee County,” she said. “But if you look at the past six months, the homes that got rented, their actual closing prices are much, much lower than the asking rates. So, they keep reducing the rent until they get rented out.”

    Bean says for him, renting was a “doable” alternative.

    “The housing prices here in Florida have gone up quite a lot over the last five years,” he said. “So, people are a little reluctant to pay as high a price for the houses as they originally went up to. And so consequently, as homes have become available for rent, like the one I found here, people might choose that as an alternative to buying a home.”

    While Bean would still like to buy a house eventually, he’s content for now.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Riverside Village Estates homeowners win 40-acres of green space, but at a cost

    Riverside Village Estates homeowners win 40-acres of green space, but at a cost

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    NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. — Homeowners at the Riverside Village Estates in Pasco County say they are rejoicing after winning a decades-long battle to preserve more than 40-acres of land in their community.

    The discussion of turning a wooded area into a multi-story development has ended after county commissioners and homeowners reached an agreement.

    What You Need To Know

    • Riverside Village Estates in Pasco County won their fight to keep 40 acres of land in their community from being developed

    • According to information from Pasco County, the deal will cost each resident $143 a year for the next 15 years, and then $25 a year after that, to keep the green space
    • The money during the first 15 years will go toward paying back the $3 million purchase price of the land, plus 0.05% interest; the $25 per year thereafter will fund overhead costs estimated to be around $43,000 per year

    • Original plans for developing housing were struck down after dozens of residents spoke out against the idea

    Pasco County commissioners voted unanimously on Aug. 21 to approve a plan to keep the property undeveloped, but it will cost the residents in the area to keep the green space.

    Miriam Butler, the president of the Riverside Village Estates Homeowners Association, said she has been fighting to keep a 40-acre plot of land untouched for more than 10 years.

    In her home, she reflects on fighting for a piece of nature outside her front door.

    “That natural area — the conservation area — it really enhances the neighborhood and the quality of life that we have,” Butler said. “It’s quieter than it would be if it was fully developed.”

    Original plans for a housing development on the property were struck down after dozens of residents spoke out against the idea.

    “We see people from all the surrounding neighborhoods that do come into this neighborhood to walk and walk past the field and forests over there and some of them walk in it, too,” she said.

    The land will now stay in its natural state, but it will cost each resident around $143 a year for the next 15 years, and just shy of $25 a year after that. According to information from Pasco County, the money collected will go toward paying off the $3 million purchase price of the land, with 0.05% interest, over 15 years.

    The approximately $25 per year after that will fund overhead costs for maintaining the property, which are estimated to be around $43,000 per year.

    Butler said it’s a price she’s willing to pay.

    “Well worth it not to have the additional traffic, the cars going faster,” she said. “All the problems that could’ve come in with more congestion. And we had drainage issues.”

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Final vote on Citizens Insurance rate hike proposal

    Final vote on Citizens Insurance rate hike proposal

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    FLORIDA — More than a million Floridians could face a major increase in the price of their homeowners insurance.

    Citizens Property Insurance proposed raising its rates by about 14% to reduce the amount of insurance holders by the end of the year — which could increase average prices for policy holders by more than $500.

    The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation will meet Monday to decide on whether to approve the proposed rate hike for all personal lines policies.

    That includes homeowners, condominium unit owners, renters, and mobile homes.

    Some insurance companies left the state as rates soared, forcing people to use Citizens — the state insurer of last resort.

    The company says the new rate would be within 20% of private carriers, making some people no longer eligible for Citizens, which would reduce financial risks.

    According to the National Association of Realtors, the state has the highest rates in the nation at nearly $11,000 a year — that’s four times the national average.

    “Secondarily, as those prospective homeowners are facing an even tighter challenge, you look at, say, pre-pandemic monthly costs have more than doubled in just about any fashion. So this only exacerbates the challenges that prospective homeowners face,” said Colin Rice, a Land Use & Real Estate Attorney with Older Lundy.

    The Citizens’ governing board passed the recommendation in June, and it now needs approval by state regulations.

    If approved, the rates would go into effect for renewal policies after Jan. 1, 2025. 

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    Destiny Wiggins

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  • Gooden family legacy continues with the 900th ‘Habitat’ home dedication

    Gooden family legacy continues with the 900th ‘Habitat’ home dedication

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    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — Almost 90 years after the Gooden family initially acquired 10 acres in the historic Ridgecrest community, a new generation of families are achieving first-time homeownership on that same land.

    Three more families have built their dream homes with the help of Habitat for Humanity. 

    What You Need To Know

    • With the help of Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas, more families have built their dream homes

    • The Gooden family invested $800 in the Ridgecrest community in the 1930s to purchase 10 acres of land in order to help the African American community own homes

    • Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties reached a significant milestone with the completion of Jones’ home — it’s the 900th home the chapter has built

    • Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas says they need to build 85 more homes this year


    “Homeownership is the key to generational wealth,” said Elizabeth Helm-Frazier.

    That has been a key factor in Helm-Frazier’s family for decades. She says her maternal grandparents, Chester and Corrine Gooden, initially invested $800 in the Ridgecrest community in the 1930s to purchase 10 acres of land.

    They came from Ocala. Had big dreams, really thinking outside of the box. What they wanted to do is not only build a home, but also a business, because back then, Black people did not have a lot of options,” said Helm-Frazier.

    The couple also sold land to other families, purchased the first fire truck for the volunteer fire department, and donated land to build the first church for the community.

    Gooden Crossing is named in honor of the couple’s legacy.

    A legacy of homeownership that will continue with Xavier Jones.

    “I’m proud of myself. It took a lot of hard work to get here,” he said.

    The single father of three wants to lead by example for his children.

    Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties reached a significant milestone with the completion of Jones’ home. It’s the 900th home the chapter has built.

    The Gooden’s grandchildren sold their last plots of land to make it possible. Helm-Frazier says her family’s lasting contribution to the historic African American community is the gift of homeownership.

    “It not only teaches wealth, but it teaches the children responsibility in taking care of a home, paying the utilities of a home, and most importantly, pride. I am very proud to be a Ridgecrest kid,” said Helm-Frazier.

    Habitat for Humanity’s Mike Sutton says the project will provide other families with the opportunity to experience the same pride.

    “People are getting priced out of our community left and right. They are leaving out region. They are leaving our state. Any opportunity that we have to partner with a family to anchor them in the area is a big day,” said Sutton.

    Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas says they need to build 85 more homes this year.

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    Fadia Patterson

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  • City council approves more funding for South St. Pete home repair program

    City council approves more funding for South St. Pete home repair program

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The St. Petersburg City Council voted unanimously Thursday to boost how much money South St. Pete residents can get through a home improvement program, meant to help residents particularly hard-hit by lack of affordable housing.

    What You Need To Know

    • St. Petersburg City Council approved an increase to the maximum award that can be received for home rehabilitation through the Affordable Single-Family Homeownership Program from $45,000 – $60,000

    • Members also approved the creation of the Rapid Roof Replacement sub-program

    • The programs are available to people who live in the South St. Pete Community Redevelopment Area

    • One resident said she was able to make major changes to her home, including new flooring, a new bathroom, and repaired ceiling – that wouldn’t have been possible without the program


    “This allows them to remain in their home, because home ownership is the way for the American dream. That is one way that people are able to build generational wealth. So, as a result of being able to maintain that, it means something for them and for their heirs in the future,” said George Smith, economic development manager for the South St. Pete Community Redevelopment Agency. 

    The resolution approved by the council increases the maximum award for home rehabilitation through the Affordable Single-Family Homeownership Program from $45,000 to $65,000. It also approved the creation of another sub-program, the Rapid Roof Replacement Program.

    The programs are specifically for homeowners who live within the South St. Pete Community Redevelopment Area and come in the form of zero-interest loans. For the rehabilitation assistance program, households with incomes of up to 120% of the area median income (AMI), or $114,600 for a family of four, can receive a 100% forgivable loan after ten years of occupancy with no monthly payments. Those with incomes between 121% and 140% AMI, or $133,700 for a family of four, will repay 50% of the loan through monthly payments, which will also be forgiven after ten years. The roofing pilot program will focus on owner-occupied homes with active roof code violations. Household income must be 120% AMI or lower. Dr. Avery Slyker, the city’s assistant director for housing and community development, said the programs can be combined to provide relief.

    “So, we go in, and we find out that yes, the roof is in very serious disarray. We need to do some major repairs. The $20,000’s going to be gone, but then what do we do with the ceilings, the walls? Maybe there’s some damage done to the floors because of the leaks. We’re going to be able to assist that with those rehabilitation funds,” Slyker said.

    Both Slyker and Smith said increasing the max award to $60,000 is necessary for the rehab program.

    “The rehab assistance is very, very important. The cost to rehab a home has gone up tremendously,” Smith said.

    “Unfortunately, when we go into a home today to do rehabilitation, it costs much more than the $60,000,” Slyker said. “What we’re having to do is take a list of things that are needed and bare it down to what is absolutely essential for the health and the safety of the homeowner. This gives us a little bit more freedom to do things.”

    One resident who’s experienced the benefits of the home rehabilitation program firsthand is Delores Green. Earlier this year, work began on multiple repairs to her 15th Ave. S home. They included new flooring in several rooms, new windows, and repairs to her bedroom ceiling. Green said the work was badly needed.

    “I did take the opportunity out to buy some covers, and I climbed on a ladder on that side of the room and just covered it,” she said of her bedroom ceiling. “That slowed the rain down. It was literally raining in my room.”

    Green told Spectrum News she’s lived in the home for 25 years. She said she meant to get to repairs sooner, with help from her brother, James.

    “Me and him was going to fix the house together. We was going to do it one room at a time,” Green said.

    But she said James had an aneurysm, and she inherited the house when he passed away. Green said she ultimately turned to the city for financial help and received about $70,000 from programs that included the rehab assistance.

    “It would never have gotten done — not as fast as they got it done,” she said of the importance of that money.

    Green encourages other South St. Pete residents in need to look into the program. She said it helped preserve her brother’s legacy.

    “It’s a Godly home — peaceful, enjoyable,” she said. “I can see that my brother’s looking down. He prepared for me a place to live, and I’m so thankful.”

    Slyker encourages anyone who may have looked into the program before but didn’t meet income requirements to check again, noting they change every year.

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    Sarah Blazonis

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  • Study: St. Pete historic home values increased at a higher rate

    Study: St. Pete historic home values increased at a higher rate

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — A nonprofit organization called “Preserve the ‘Burg” in St. Petersburg recently conducted a study on the economic impact of historic properties in the city.

    According to Place Economics, homes located in St. Petersburg’s historic districts have experienced higher rates of increase in value compared to the rest of the city.

    What You Need To Know

    • A nonprofit organization called “Preserve the Burg” in St. Petersburg recently conducted a study on the economic impact of historic properties in the city

    • According to Place Economics, homes located in St. Petersburg’s historic districts have experienced higher rates of increase in value compared to the rest of the city

    • Historic district home value rates increased at 119.3% per square foot compared to 85.2% for other St. Petersburg homes

    • Preserve the ‘Burg Executive Director Manny Leto says between 2010 to 2020, jobs on Central Avenue grew by more than 50% compared to the city’s 17% job growth during the same time

    Historic district home value rates increased at 119.3% per square foot compared to 85.2% for other St. Petersburg homes.

    Alec Smith is a specialist architect in historic preservation and renovation. This type of work requires compliance with building codes that are specifically designed for historic properties.

    “These are just kind of some snippets of a project we were working on for a new accessory dwelling unit behind a historic home,” he said while sharing his sketches.

    He draws up his designs in his office, which is situated in his historic home that he renovated.

    “It’s over 100 years old. We are located in Historic Kenwood,” said Smith. “Our home has more than quadrupled in value since owning it in the last 12 years.”

    Alec is not the only homeowner benefitting from his investment.

    A study by Place Economics says home property values in St. Pete’s historic districts have increased at a higher rate than the rest of the city.

    According to the study, lower rent in older buildings on Central Avenue has contributed to the success of small businesses.

    Preserve the ‘Burg Executive Director Manny Leto says between 2010 to 2020, jobs on Central Avenue grew by more than 50% compared to the city’s 17% job growth during the same time. 

    Leto says the study also looked at how historic buildings can help with affordable housing.

    “When we’re talking about affordable housing, we often talk about new, but another component of affordability is keeping your existing stock,” said Leto.

    Principal Donovan Rypkema of Place Economics argues that the idea that additional regulations for historic preservation harm property values is disproven by the study.

    “The other side, however, is of all the city-level studies we’ve done. St Petersburg has the lowest share of them under the protection of the local preservation order,” said Rypkema. “That means most of the historic resources here have no protection at all. They’re at risk of being torn down tomorrow.”

    He explains that the study provides evidence that can be used for advocacy and policy decisions. Meanwhile, Smith supports preserving old structures that give character to the evolving community.

    “I think, you know, with a little bit of love, these homes can last for another hundred years easily because of the quality of materials that were put in them originally,” he said. “You know, those materials don’t exist anymore. We cut down all the forests to build these beautiful homes, but we should take advantage of the old-growth lumber that is built into these homes to keep it to maintain them.”

    Smith says when dealing with historic homes, it’s a guaranteed investment in a solid foundation.

    Discussions about preserving historic communities will continue at the Pinellas Historic Preservation Summit on May 17.

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    Fadia Patterson

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