“Sometimes we talk about affordable housing, and we should be talking about building markets. Sometimes it’s vice versa but either way, we’re confusing the issue,” said Dennis Roberts, Chief Strategy Officer at Cuyahoga Land Bank.

This confusion has real consequences, especially in places like East Cleveland, one of the most disinvested cities in the nation. With an average household income of roughly $22,000 per year, the instinct is often to double down on affordability. But research (and lived experience) tells us that the most vibrant, resilient communities are those with mixed incomes.

“Experts say the most vibrant communities are those that have mixed incomes,” Roberts said. “That means, we need to bring new people to East Cleveland with higher incomes, while we continue to create and support housing opportunities for the people who have lived there for years.”

That statement can sound provocative, even uncomfortable. But the point isn’t to exclude existing residents, but rather to expand the market so opportunity, investment and demand can return to benefit everyone.

The Real Diagnosis: Concentrated Poverty

Concentrated poverty doesn’t just limit individual households; it weakens entire systems, including schools, commercial corridors, public services and civic life. When everyone in a neighborhood is financially constrained, there’s little capacity to demand or sustain quality amenities.

“The sickness is being misdiagnosed,” Roberts explained. “We need more quality housing that supports people at various income levels; these homeowners with higher incomes in turn will demand better schools, shopping centers, amenities, which will be a benefit to everyone in that community.”

At the core, most people (regardless of income) want the same things. Roberts explained, “They want a decent place to live, decent schools, amenities, a walkable community, a place to take their kids – and they want it to be safe.”

Mixed-income neighborhoods make those shared aspirations achievable.

Market-Building Is a Team Sport

Creating these conditions requires coordinated action across sectors, particularly in places that have experienced decades of disinvestment.

“The local government could take responsibility for land assembly, signaling that it will act in a strategic and sustainable way,” Roberts said. “That would give the private sector the confidence to invest for the long-term. The philanthropic community could also have to help de-risk early investment opportunities. Each sector plays a role.”

No single organization or team can do this alone. Market recovery is an ecosystem effort.

Being Willing to Be the Loss Leader

At Cuyahoga Land Bank, that ecosystem approach often starts with intentional risk-taking.

“Many times, when the Cuyahoga Land Bank goes into a community, we are the loss leaders. We often lose money on those initial homes and we recognize that,” Roberts described. “But we are creating the conditions for private investment to come in afterwards, make money and create a healthy market.”

This is how markets are rebuilt: not by avoiding loss entirely, but by using strategic losses to unlock long-term value.

Poverty as a Societal Issue, not a Local Flaw

The logic behind public investment in housing markets isn’t fundamentally different from how we think about schools.

“A school system is an investment that we all make because we recognize the importance of it,” Roberts said. “If we recognize that, we should also recognize that pockets of poverty are not good for society. We have to recognize that, like schools, concentrated poverty is a collective societal issue.”

Mixed-income neighborhoods aren’t charity. They’re infrastructure for opportunity.

Patience Is Part of the Strategy

Finally, there’s no shortcut around time.

“If it took years in order to create a situation, it’s going to take years to fix it,” Roberts said.

Rebuilding markets, restoring confidence and rebalancing neighborhoods is slow, deliberate work. But the payoff is profound: communities that are not only affordable, but functional, vibrant and durable.

The goal isn’t just housing people. It’s rebuilding places, and mixed-income neighborhoods are one of the most powerful tools we have to do exactly that.

The post Building Markets, Not Just Housing: The Case for Mixed-Income Neighborhoods appeared first on Cuyahoga Land Bank.

For years, this property sat vacant, becoming a neighborhood eyesore. Since 2016, following a foreclosure in 2015, the house languished, falling into disrepair and accumulating more than 71 outstanding code violations. It was a classic example of a nuisance property, detracting from the surrounding community.

Recognizing the potential for positive change, the City of South Euclid took decisive action by filing a civil public nuisance action under Ohio Revised Code 3767.41. Cuyahoga Land Bank was appointed as the Court Appointed Receiver, leveraging our unique legal expertise to take control of the property and pave the way for its revitalization.

As Receiver, our team undertook a full rehabilitation of the home, addressing every code violation and completely abating the public nuisance conditions. The entire property was reimagined and brought up to modern standards, ready for a new chapter. (See before and after photos of the stunning transformation below.)

The results speak for themselves. This once-neglected property has been completely transformed into a beautiful, top-of-the-market renovation. And the best part? It didn’t sit on the market for long! Demonstrating the desirability of a quality renovation in South Euclid, the renovated home went under contract in just six days, receiving multiple offers and ultimately selling over the asking price. This quick sale signifies not only the quality of the renovation but also the demand for well-maintained homes in the area.

This success story wouldn’t have been possible without the strong collaboration between Cuyahoga Land Bank and the City of South Euclid. We extend our sincere gratitude to Mayor Georgine Welo and key individuals including former South Euclid Housing Director Sally Martin O’Toole and Economic Development Director Michael Love for their vision, commitment and partnership in utilizing the receivership process to address this long-standing issue.

This project is a powerful example of how strategic partnerships and legal expertise can be leveraged to transform vacant nuisance properties into valuable community assets. (To discover another example of how the Land Bank leverages its diverse tools to facilitate transformative projects, dive into our new Land Banking Tools 101 series and explore our pivotal role as a pass-through entity for the Taylor Road Synagogue project in Cleveland Heights.) By eliminating blight and creating quality housing, we can return properties to tax-productive beneficial ownership and contribute to the overall vitality of our neighborhoods. It’s a win-win for everyone, and we’re excited to see the new homeowner begin their life in this beautifully reimagined space.

Before and After

The post Land Banking 101: Using Receivership to Move South Euclid Home From Nuisance to New Beginnings appeared first on Cuyahoga Land Bank.

This partnership is currently reaching an exciting new milestone, this time on Luther Avenue in Cleveland’s Goodrich-Kirkland Park neighborhood. For years, this site was a vacant lot, remnants of a demolition from long ago. Now, thanks to LMM’s innovative approach and our collaborative efforts, activity surrounds it. Much of the site work at Luther Avenue is already complete, paving the way for something special: LMM’s very first new construction project. They are building a modular duplex home, which is largely complete in the warehouse and will soon be set on its foundation. We’re anticipating a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its completion by the end of August!

While this is LMM’s inaugural new construction, their expertise in affordable housing is well-established through their impactful renovation work. We currently have three other projects in the works with LMM, focusing on renovating existing homes in Cleveland’s St. Clair-Superior neighborhood. These efforts are dedicated to increasing the stock of affordable housing in our city, providing essential opportunities for individuals and families. We are committed to sharing photos of these exciting projects as they progress; stay tuned for updates.

Cuyahoga Land Bank plays a crucial role in enabling organizations like LMM to achieve their mission. Whether it’s providing properties ripe for renovation or, as in the case of Luther Avenue, supplying well-prepared vacant lots for new construction, we leverage our resources to support our partners. This ensures that valuable properties are put back into productive use, directly addressing the critical need for affordable housing.

“Our partnership with Lutheran Metropolitan Ministry is a shining example of how collaboration can drive significant positive change,” Land Bank President & CEO Ricardo León said. “Supporting organizations like LMM in their mission to provide safe, decent and affordable housing is central to our strategic vision. Together, we are building stronger communities and creating opportunities for a better future for all.”

The post Cuyahoga Land Bank and Lutheran Metropolitan Ministry Join Forces for Affordable Living appeared first on Cuyahoga Land Bank.

We’re thrilled to share some exciting news here from Cuyahoga Land Bank and our brokerage, Realty Reimagined. Citizens has once again demonstrated their commitment to our community by awarding us a generous Financial Empowerment grant. This vital funding will directly support our ongoing efforts to empower our neighbors on their journey to financial well-being and homeownership.

At Cuyahoga Land Bank, we believe in the power of partnership, and our long-standing relationship with Citizens is a testament to that. For years, they’ve been a crucial supporter of Realty Reimagined, providing grant funding that allows us to offer essential programs focused on Financial Empowerment. This year, we were particularly honored and grateful when Citizens increased their gift in recognition of our impact on the community.

Their reason? Our track record. Citizens recognized Realty Reimagined not as an organization just receiving a check, but as a dedicated partner consistently providing outstanding services and making a real difference in the lives of Cuyahoga County residents. These funds are instrumental in supporting the core of our outreach:

• Comprehensive Homeownership Workshops: Equipping prospective buyers with the knowledge to navigate the often-complex home buying process.
• Individual Counseling Services: Providing personalized guidance to address credit issues, budgeting and home maintenance skills.
• Accessible Real Estate Events: Hosting pre-approval clinics, larger open house events and informational sessions in convenient community locations.

We understand that the path to homeownership can be challenging, especially for low-to-moderate income (LMI) households. Many individuals struggle with understanding financing options, accurately estimating costs and creating sustainable financial plans. LMI buyers may also be more vulnerable to predatory practices and unexpected home repair burdens.

That’s where our HUD-certified counselors step in. Through our comprehensive homebuyer education, we aim to demystify the process, empower participants with essential skills and provide a safety net of knowledge.

Looking ahead to 2025, we have ambitious goals. Our application to Citizens outlined our commitment to:

• Conducting 20 Homebuyer Education Classes annually.
• Continuing to host regular Pre-Approval Clinics in accessible locations like libraries and community centers.
• Expanding our reach through new partnerships, including lunch-and-learn sessions with Cleveland Clinic and Case Western University, and Saturday workshops in collaboration with El Centro.

Furthermore, as we gear up for the exciting launch of the Circle East District, Cuyahoga Land Bank is focused on vertically integrating services to holistically address community needs. This includes helping residents navigate property tax issues, connecting them with home repair resources, and preparing future homeowners for the new construction opportunities in Circle East. To further support this initiative, we’ve developed a down payment assistance program, offering a $20,000 grant that can be layered with other assistance to encourage and enable the purchase of new homes in the Circle East District.

The generous Financial Empowerment grant from Citizens is a crucial catalyst in helping us achieve these goals and empower our community. We are deeply grateful for their continued partnership and their belief in the work we do at Realty Reimagined. Together, we are helping our neighbors and communities reach their full potential, one empowered homeowner at a time.

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“Initially, I was just looking at a few Cleveland neighborhoods. I used to live in Gordon Square, and I love Edgewater Beach. I spent almost a year searching, and I was looking for either a renovated home or a fixer-upper. But so many of the renovated houses I saw were poorly done. This house was different.”

The property, fully renovated by Cuyahoga Land Bank, immediately stood out. Coral was particularly impressed with the thoughtfully added second bathroom and the upgraded kitchen and baths. “The renovation was done right,” she said. “That was a huge selling point.”

The comprehensive renovation included a new front porch, driveway and sidewalks, new windows, a completely renovated kitchen and baths with high-end appliances and finishes, and updated electrical, plumbing and HVAC systems.

“The quality of the renovation was exceptional,” Coral emphasizes. “And the one-year warranty offered peace of mind, which was a nice bonus.”

While Coral had some familiarity with Cuyahoga Land Bank through a friend, she wasn’t aware of its home renovation program until she discovered the West 95th Street property.

“I didn’t initially know it was a Land Bank renovation,” she admits. “I found out after.”

When asked about the best thing about her new home, Coral reiterated the location and the quality of the renovation. “Location is still the best thing,” she said. “Also, because the renovation was done so well, I don’t have to worry about things falling apart. This house is all updated and done right.”

Coral’s experience highlights the Land Bank’s commitment to creating high-quality, move-in-ready homes that revitalize neighborhoods and provide lasting value to homeowners.

The post Land Bank Homes Makes Another Homebuyer Happy with Quality Renovation, Updates in Historic Neighborhood appeared first on Cuyahoga Land Bank.

On a sunny Saturday morning in May, five families were handed their wooden keys in a heartwarming dedication that also marked a significant milestone for both Habitat for Humanity of Greater Cleveland and Cuyahoga Land Bank. 

This project on West 128th, lovingly referred to as “The Stairway to Nowhere” because of a staircase on one of the lots that led literally nowhere and now leads to a backyard, launched back in 2017 and highlights the true and full process of land banking – returning land to productive use.

The typical process begins when a land banking team identifies a vacant home or lot that could be better used to benefit a community. In this situation, the Land Bank’s acquisitions team  identified five vacant lots on Cleveland’s West Side. To create a contiguous area of developable land, the Land Bank needed to work with the adjacent homeowners association for a land swap; and this is where Land Bank Assistant General Counsel Douglas Sawyer’s stepped in. Doug worked to recreate the HOA and arrange for a land swap between the HOA and the Land Bank.

Once cleared from the legal team, Acquisitions Manager Kim Steigerwald engaged a contractor to perform an environmental assessment on the properties and arranged for one of the Land Bank’s field service contractors to remove a gazebo on one of the lots and re-assemble it on a different parcel.

At this point, the land was ready for development! The Land Bank worked closely with Habitat for Humanity to plan and execute on this “Faith Build” – special work Habitat does that highlights the importance of community and shared purpose. Our in-house philanthropy Land Bank Charities extended our contribution to Habitat beyond the five lots by providing a total of $200,000, $150,000 of which went toward the overall project and an additional $10,000 dedicated to each home.

Together, the development of these specific homes became a shining example of how collaboration can create lasting change and empower families to achieve the dream of homeownership. The dedication illustrated this. On this warm spring morning, the volunteers’ tireless efforts and Habitat for Humanity’s unwavering commitment were celebrated and acknowledged, alongside Bre’Anna, Kamisha, Danyele, Tionna, Amber and Milan and their families, the residents of these five new homes who invested months of hard work of preparing for homeownership

“We’re thrilled to be a part of this transformative Habitat for Humanity project,” said Gus Frangos, President and General Counsel. “Witnessing the dedication ceremony for these five new homes was incredibly fulfilling. These aren’t just houses; they represent stability, opportunity and a foundation for brighter futures for five families. We’re proud to have played a role in making these dreams a reality, and we know the impact will ripple throughout the community for years to come.”

“This project has transformed a neighborhood, and it wouldn’t have been possible without the help of the Cuyahoga Land Bank or Habitat for Humanity,” said project supporter and Cleveland Ward 16 Councilman Brian Kazy. “All the behind-the-scenes work the Land Bank put into this project was unprecedented. Between tracking down a defunct Homeowners Association to lot-splitting to keeping the nostalgic look of the neighborhood was yeoman’s work. All this has helped stabilize a neighborhood, provide housing and help families build wealth. I very much appreciate the Cuyahoga Land Bank and all the others who helped bring this project into reality.”

Check out the video of the dedication ceremony here.

Faith Build sponsors included: Brecksville United Methodist Church, Calvary Hill Church of God in Christ Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist,  Church of the Gesu Church of the Western Reserve, First Lutheran Church of Strongsville Lakewood United Methodist Church, Heat and Frost Insulators Local 3, Lord of Life Lutheran Church,  Old Stone Church,  St. Joseph Church in Strongsville, Cleveland’s St. Mark Parish, St. Mary of the Falls, St. Mary’s Parish in Berea, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Cleveland Heights, Strongsville United Methodist Church, and the Church of the Covenant.

The post Land Banking in Action: The Reality of How Transforming Vacant Lots Can Bring Dreams to Life for Habitat for Humanity Families appeared first on Cuyahoga Land Bank.

Cuyahoga Land Bank is thrilled to announce the renovation of 10 homes in Cleveland and East Cleveland in the Circle East District, a 30-acre neighborhood directly adjacent to Lake View Cemetery along Euclid Avenue of which Cuyahoga Land Bank is leading the redevelopment.

The newly renovated properties are all owned and occupied by long-time homeowners, with some residents having been there for more than 40 years! Renovations and repairs averaged $19,000 per home and included the installation of new roofs, siding, porches, doors and windows. These improvements have been designed to keep each home safe and sanitary. Not only have the improvements raised the value of each home, but they also increased the homeowners’ opportunity to build equity, which helps to create wealth in this predominantly African-American community.

Grant funds to complete this round of renovations come from various sources, including Ohio’s Housing Assistance Program, the McGregor Foundation, Carol M. Peterson Housing Fund and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Cincinnati. An additional $1 million in grant funding will be used for repairs on other owner- occupied homes in the neighborhood.

“Watching residents fall back in love with their homes and neighborhoods is truly rewarding work” said Dennis Roberts, Cuyahoga Land Bank’s Director of Real Estate Development. “Our mission is to return abandoned and vacant land to productive use, but the renewed sense of pride is what makes our efforts worthwhile.”

• Home renovations are key in the first of five phases laid out in Circle East revitalization plan. Other Phase One initiatives include:
• The renovation of a 25,000 square foot commercial building to create new employment opportunities and tax revenue for the city
• The installation by the city of new waterlines, sewers and streetscape on Euclid Avenue, Woodlawn Avenue and Penrose Avenue
• The creation of a community park, which will provide more greenspace and recreational opportunities for neighborhood residents
• The building of 12 new townhomes and 22 new market rate single-family homes to start bringing residents back into the neighborhood

“I’ve lived here for over 50 years and what’s going on now is quite exciting. I look forward to being here to see it completed,” said East Cleveland resident Lela Eskridge.

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The Cuyahoga Land Bank is a private, non-profit, government-purposed entity formed following passage of Ohio Senate Bill 353 in 2009, which granted county land banks the special community development powers needed to improve neighborhoods. The mission of the Cuyahoga Land Bank is to strategically acquire properties, return them to productive use, reduce blight, increase property values, support community goals and improve the quality of life for county residents. Now in its 15th year, the Cuyahoga Land Bank has several initiatives specifically designed to support the revitalization of Northeast Ohio communities, including, Realty Reimagined (a nonprofit real estate brokerage) Land Bank

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The allure of a trendy, up-and-coming neighborhood is undeniable. The potential for appreciation, a vibrant community on the rise, and a cool, unique vibe all hold immense appeal. But let’s face it: buying a home in a transitional neighborhood like Cuyahoga Land Bank’s new Circle East District at the gateway to University Circle in East Cleveland can also raise a few questions.

Here, our friends at Realty Reimagined tackle some of the most common questions asked about buying a home in a transitional neighborhood:

1. Is it safe?

Safety is a top concern for any home buyer, but a well-designed neighborhood prioritizes safety not just with patrol cars, but with its very infrastructure. While no neighborhood is perfect, the Circle East District is being developed with safety in mind.

Phase I of Circle East District’s housing development features well-lit roads, sidewalks and an abundance of trees. (Did you know that studies consistently show the connection between tree-lined streets and safety?) Housing design with security systems and cameras, greenway with foot traffic. There are many initiatives to foster a safe neighborhood allowing residents to truly enjoy their community.

2. Tell me about the area schools.

School quality is a major factor, especially for families. East Cleveland offers a unique advantage for families seeking educational opportunities. The city boasts convenient access to a wide range of educational options Ð from nearby Benedictine High School to the prestigious Mastery School of Hawken and the CMSD’s Cleveland School of Science and Medicine, as well as many options in nearby Cleveland Heights, Shaker Heights, and University Heights. Public high schools in surrounding areas consistently rank well, providing a variety of academic focuses for students.

For those with younger children, well regarded preschool options like the Cleveland Music Settlement and Cleveland Montessori School are minutes away. Ohio’s Educational Choice Scholarship (EdChoice) Program provides students from designated public schools the opportunity to attend participating private schools. The program also provides students who are entering kindergarten through 12th grade scholarship opportunities based on their household income level.

Additionally, East Cleveland’s proximity to world-renowned universities like Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) and Cleveland State University opens doors to exceptional higher education opportunities. In fact, CWRU’s Cleveland Scholars Program covers the full cost of attendance to all admitted graduates from both the Cleveland Metropolitan School District and East Cleveland City Schools.

This variety ensures that students of all ages and academic aspirations can find the perfect learning environment to thrive, all within a close radius of East Cleveland.

3. How are the city services?  

Safe streets, reliable trash collection and well-maintained parks are more than amenities; they’re the backbone of a functional and enjoyable neighborhood. Reliable police and fire departments ensure your safety and peace of mind. Efficient trash collection keeps your surroundings clean and sanitary. Well-maintained parks and libraries provide recreational opportunities and enhance the overall quality of life. The City of East Cleveland has prioritized the Circle East District and made major investments in infrastructure and top-notch city services.

4. Will my property value increase?    

There’s definitely potential! Up-and-coming areas often see significant property value growth over time.

5. Are there employment opportunities and how is the commute?  

If job proximity is a priority for your homebuying decision, Circle East District offers residents an easy commute to potential employers among Cleveland’s thriving medical hub (Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals), Downtown Cleveland and many inner-ring suburbs.

6. Tell me about the social amenities surrounding the area.

Location, location location, #amiright? While many up-and-coming areas might be lacking in amenities initially, East Cleveland is just steps away (265 steps if you’re counting) from the vibrant cultural center of University Circle and Little Italy.   Downtown Cleveland, Edgewater, the buzzing pockets of Cleveland Heights like Coventry and Cedar-Lee, and Shaker’s Van Aken District are all just short drives away.

7. Are there future development plans?

New homes being built in Phase I of Circle East are just the beginning. After the successful completion of Phase I, plans are to build eastward starting with new homes on Penrose Avenue and the development of new commercial and recreational amenities along Euclid Avenue. Several other new development projects are in the works, including a proposed $100 million mixed-used development on Euclid Avenue.

8. Are there greenspaces and other family-friendly areas nearby?  

A linear multi-use greenway (including a play area) will breathe new life into formerly vacant lots in the neighborhood, enriching the neighborhood by promoting a healthy lifestyle, fostering a sense of community and contributing to a more sustainable environment. In addition, the Cleveland Metroparks is expected to assume management of the nearby 170-acre Forest Hill Park. The incredibly scenic and historic Lake View Cemetery is also in your backyard Ð literally.

9. Is it less expensive to buy in a transitional neighborhood?

With attractive financing terms and the potential for a 15-year 100% residential tax abatement on all new construction residential properties, Circle East District promises attractive pricing on all its new homes.

10. Are there resources available to help me make an informed decision?  

Partnering with a knowledgeable real estate agent who specializes in transitional neighborhoods can provide valuable insights and guide you through the process.

Buying in an up-and-coming neighborhood can be an exciting adventure. By asking the right questions and doing your research, you can make an informed decision and potentially find your dream home in this thriving community.

Remember, your ideal neighborhood is a place that complements your lifestyle, not just the house itself. By considering these factors, you can ensure you find a community that feels like home. Happy house hunting!

The post Answers to 10 Questions About Buying Homes in Transitional Neighborhoods appeared first on Cuyahoga Land Bank.

Happy National Homebuyers Month, the time to celebrate all the fresh beginnings, new opportunities and the value of homeownership to families, neighborhoods and cities across America.  

Here at the Cuyahoga Land Bank, we work to make our Northeast Ohio communities vibrant, prosperous and sustainable by creating homeownership opportunities. Through our various programs, we renovate and rebuild homes where vacant or abandoned houses once sat. We also foster creative reuse of properties for greenspace, gardening, stormwater management and other ecological purposes, all of which contribute to revitalized neighborhoods.  

Additionally, last year we also created our own brokerage firm, Realty Reimagined. This innovative full-service team is changing how real estate services are provided by giving back to communities through its mission of “transforming lives one person, one home and one neighborhood at a time.” Their work is community-focused, unlike any other realty group.      

National Homebuyers Month started in 2002 to reinforce the belief that owning a home is a step toward achieving the American dream. Pairing the philanthropic missions of the Land Bank and Realty Reimagined with that of National Homebuyers Month, we have crafted a great line-up of relevant activities throughout the month to celebrate!  

June 8: Realty Reimagined is hosting a Homebuyer Education Course from 10a-4p at the East Cleveland Public Library’s Lower Auditorium. This free course will provide information about credit and money management; the loan process; shopping for a home; understanding insurance and inspections; and maintaining a home. Register here.

June 24: Join us at the iconic Mickey’s building at 12550 Euclid Avenue in East Cleveland and the launchpad of Circle East District for a Home Buying Resource Fair & Pre-Approval Clinic! Not only will multiple lenders be on hand to help you get prequalified and compare mortgage products, it will also be a full-out celebration of homeownership where you can access resources and tips from an array of housing professionals including agents, housing counselors, title companies, home inspectors and more. Register here.

June issue of Cleveland Magazine: Be sure to pick up a copy of this month’s Cleveland Magazine as Circle East District is a featured up-and-coming neighborhoods!  

June 27: We are officially celebrating the completion of Mickey’s – the first updated and ready-for-business commercial building renovations in East Cleveland in decades. Not only does this create a hub of activity in the neighborhood, it also marks the opportunity for hundreds of thousands of dollars of tax income for the city!  

Follow us on social for continual updates about Circle East District.

The post National Homebuyers’ Month: Celebrating the American Dream appeared first on Cuyahoga Land Bank.

The Cuyahoga Land Bank is thrilled to announce the selection of three exceptional development partners for its Circle East District initiative to revitalize the residential area at East Cleveland’s Eastern gateway to University Circle. The firmsÐCleveland Bricks, Greenlight Builders and Martin Premier HomesÐeach bring a wealth of experience and a proven track record of building modern, high-quality, energy-efficient homes.

Phase I of the project will showcase variety, offering a mix of housing options to cater to potential buyers’ diverse needs and lifestyles. This includes 22 single-family homes perfect for families seeking traditional living spaces in various sizes to accommodate growing families or empty nesters. Twelve townhomes are also included in the plans, an attractive option for those who desire a sense of community, shared green space and a low-maintenance lifestyle. All homes will be built sustainably with solar panels and EV chargers.

“A diverse housing mix builds stronger neighborhoods,” said Dennis Roberts, the Land Bank’s Director of Real Estate Development. “It promotes inclusivity, social cohesion and the long-term economic vitality of this neighborhood. A variety of housing options attracts a wider pool of residents, which in turn attracts businesses that cater to their needs and a more vibrant and resilient local economy. In the Circle East District, there’s a house for everybody,” says Roberts.

The Land Bank will spearhead home construction efforts this fall with its own five single-family homes on Woodlawn Avenue. Future plans call for more than 200 homes to expand East Cleveland’s property and income tax base and kickstart a transformational redevelopment of

the area.  

The three firms were chosen for their expertise in construction and alignment with the Land Bank’s vision for a sustainable and thriving community. “We selected development partners who resonate with the Land Bank’s core values,” said Roberts. “We sought diverse firms with the technical know-how to deliver high-quality housing and see our vision for creating vibrant neighborhoods.”

Here’s a glimpse into what excites us about each partner:

• Cleveland Bricks Ð The developer’s commitment to quality homes is evident in vibrant neighborhoods like Ohio City, Tremont and Detroit-Shoreway. Its dedication to building highly efficient green homes using sustainable materials is matched by its role as early adopters in neighborhood revitalization projects. Chad Jones, Director of Marketing and Rental Operations, shared, “We are excited to contribute to the transformation of another great neighborhood through the Land Bank’s revitalization efforts.”
• Greenlight Builders Ð The firm’s roots in the community Ð many staff live, work and play in Cleveland neighborhoods Ð informs much of its development process, from design choices to community engagement to construction. It has had tremendous success building in transitional neighborhoods. “Circle East could not have more potential,” said partner Frank Camardo. “It has all the ingredients to become a neighborhood of choice — incredible proximity to one of the largest job hubs in the state, one block from all that Little Italy has to offer, and the space to build new, green homes with meaningful density. Couple all those positives with the Land Bank’s continued efforts to support Circle East’s overall development, and we couldn’t be more excited to contribute to this project.”
• Martin Premier Homes Ð The firm prioritizes green building efforts by implementing energy-efficient designs, utilizing eco-friendly materials and integrating renewable energy solutions wherever possible. Its commitment to environmentally responsible construction practices ensures that its developments not only meet the needs of today but also contribute positively to the future. “We’re thrilled to be part of the Circle East District project because it presents a unique opportunity to contribute to the growth and development of a vibrant community,” said Ishmael Martin, real estate developer. “Being involved in such a transformative project allows us to leave a lasting impact on the area, creating spaces where people can live, work and thrive.”

Stay Tuned

We’re excited to unveil more details about this project in the coming weeks. We’ll be sharing information about the types of housing available, the timeline for construction and opportunities for community engagement. In the meantime, we encourage you to learn more about our new development partners by visiting their websites.

Together, we’re building a brighter future for East Cleveland, one sustainable home at a time!

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