Kansas City's "Dollar House" program has created 40 new homeowners after a thorough application and vetting process.
Monday morning was decision day for Land Bank board members and " Dollar House" applicants. Ted Anderson is the executive director of the Kansas City Land Bank. Anderson says the initial list had 135 properties that were available for purchase. Eighty people applied for 47 of those properties. Anderson said preference was given to those who planned to live in the house.
"These are almost our worst properties, but not quite," said Anderson.
Applicants had to pass a background check and prove they had $8,500 available to begin renovation work.
Jamaica and Michael Collins were among the applicants. They attended the "Dollar Home" hearing at the Land Bank office in hopes of swaying the board members in their favor. Jamaica fought back tears as board members announced that the family of nine would receive a $1 home.
"We had to remain composed and not just start jumping all over the place," said Jamaica Collins.
Brush and trees cover the front of their future home near 30th and Olive Street, but they clearly see the vision for their family.
"We can survive six boys and a girl, we can survive something like this. We hope the property values will go up in the next five to 10 years," said Collins.
It's a hope city leaders believe will be realized as more owner-occupants move into the core of the city.
The homes on the list that did not attract a buyer will be demolished. The new homeowners will close on the properties in the coming weeks. They have one year to make them habitable.
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