Agenda - 10-14-1993 - C 1 - Laserfiche WebLink

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010 - - option for both maintaining homeowners in their homes and converting rental properties into homeownership opportunities . Some new homeownership opportunities under $90, 000 are available in Carrboro and Hillsborough; however, many are two- bedroom units and therefore not suitable for a family of four. More recent development proposals in Carrboro and Hillsborough have been for housing units at prices above $100,000 . Orange County Habitat for Humanity has an aggressive construction program, with a new subdivision underway that will eventually house 35 families. The Habitat model has been very successful in Orange County, and continued support of Habitat for Humanity will be important to meet the need for homeownership opportunities for very low-income families. One important concern about housing market pressure in Chapel Hill is the loss of black homeownership, particularly in the Northside and Pine Knolls neighborhoods . Pressure from student- driven investors has driven up the prices of homes in the traditional black communities in Chapel Hill, preventing other low- and moderate-income black families from purchasing homes in the communities. The units are sold to investors, often through an estate sale, and rented to students. This market phenomenon has resulted in the reduction of black land ownership and neighborhoods in Chapel Hill. Mobile Homes and Manufactured Housing. Another source of affordable housing in Orange County is mobile homes, constituting 12% of the County' s total housing stock in 1990 . While mobile homes do not appreciate in the same way as conventional homes and in many cases the homeowner does not own the land underneath a mobile home, it may be the most affordable option for some families . Very few standards exist for mobile home parks, and the Orange County Low and Moderate Income Housing Task Force Report stresses the need for some guidance for park owners to protect mobile home owners who often cannot afford to move their home. Manufactured housing, which is conventional-style housing constructed in a factory and delivered to the site, is another affordable alternative. Recent improvements in construction technology have created a product similar in quality to a house constructed on-site, with features that result in affordable prices. One issue regarding manufactured housing is confusion around definitions and quality. Any manufactured housing built after 1976 must meet specific Federal guidelines regarding construction and safety standards. Traditional perceptions of mobile homes must change to meet the changing quality standards now required. Many manufactured homes are indistinguishable from site-built houses, and can provide quality affordable housing options in Orange 7