For Kim Brown, renovating a home she purchased from the Cuyahoga Land Bank was a chance to create a space perfectly suited to her family’s needs. And with the help of the Land Bank’s Deed-in-Escrow Program, Kim transformed a once-dilapidated house on Kipling Avenue in Collinwood into her own personal haven.
A Cleveland native with a passion for design, Kim wasn’t deterred by the property’s initial condition. Having owned the house next door for years, she saw the potential hidden beneath the surface. “The house was almost demolition-ready,” Kim recalls, “but I knew what it could be.” With the help of Promise Land Construction and the Land Bank, Kim renovated the home top to bottom, including new electrical and HVAC systems, updated plumbing, a new roof, rebuilt porch and modern kitchen and bath amenities. (See before and after photos below).
Kim and her then-fiancé, Logan (now her husband), collaborated on the home’s design and their vision went beyond aesthetics. “What I loved most about this project was the customization,” she says. “We are a blended family with four children and one grandchild. Being able to design the layout, pick out everything from countertops to fixtures – it truly allowed me to create a space that reflects our family’s unique needs.”
The Road to Renovation
Kim’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. The initial scope of the project, in which she transformed a two-family home into a spacious single-family home for her family, expanded as unforeseen structural issues came to light. “There were definitely delays,” Kim acknowledges, “but the Land Bank was there every step of the way. Their project manager regularly checked on the progress, ensuring everything was done correctly. It was kind of like a safety net.”
Kim’s experience highlights the Cuyahoga Land Bank’s commitment to continuous improvement. The program has recently undergone changes, including allowing owner-occupants to hire their own contractors, streamlining the process for future participants.
Kim is enthusiastic about recommending the program to others. “Especially with the new changes,” she says, “it’s a fantastic opportunity for those looking to create their dream home.”
Owning a home is more than just bricks and mortar; it’s about creating a space that reflects your life. Thanks to the Cuyahoga Land Bank’s Deed-in-Escrow Program, Kim Brown was able to do just that.
Inspired by Kim’s story? Learn more about the Cuyahoga Land Bank’s Deed-in-Escrow Program and start your journey to homeownership today!
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