How It Works

Generation after generation, DCLT recycles public and community investments in affordable housing and maintains affordable housing even as the surrounding neighborhood values grow.

DCLT acquires land and houses through purchase or donation often using federal funds passed through the City of Durham.

The house (not the land) is then sold to a low-to-moderate income (80% AMI and below) buyer utilizing a 99-year renewable ground lease agreement.

DCLT retains ownership of the land in perpetuity to ensure the house will be resold to another family in need of an affordable housing unit. The owner of the house pays DCLT a nominal fee each month for leasing the land.