SPEND A LITTLE, GET A LOT!

The Spend a Little, Get a LOT! program helps local residents turn vacant lots into community assets — whether it’s a garden, green space, or simply extending your yard. The goal? Stabilize neighborhoods by putting land back into the hands of people who live there.

What’s the Program About?

Eligible lots are sold for just $100 (plus closing costs) to qualified neighbors who live nearby. This program is designed to reward long-term residents and responsible property owners who are already invested in their block.

COMMUNITY PROJECTS THAT STARTED WITH A LOT!

ELIGIBILITY

To qualify, applicants must:

  • Live within 500 feet of the lot

  • Be an owner-occupant or a renter with 5+ years at their current residence

  • The property must have been in the Land Bank’s inventory for over a year

Please Note: Adjacent property owners and renters will be given first preference if the property is competitive.

Example: Everyone owner-occupant, homeowner, and renter with 5+ years tenure as their primary residence living within the purple circle above would be eligible to purchase a lot for $100. If their family income is below 50% of Median Area Income (se…

Example

If you’re a homeowner or a renter who’s lived in your current home for 5+ years and your residence is within 500 feet of an eligible vacant lot (like the purple circle shown above), you can purchase that lot for $100 (plus closing costs).

If your household income is below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for the Albany-Schenectady-Troy region, you may also qualify for a $500 credit toward closing costs.

PRICING & ASSISTANCE

  • Purchase Price: $100 (plus closing costs)

  • Closing Cost Credit: Up to $500 if your income is ≤50% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for the Albany-Schenectady-Troy area (credit does not apply to purchase price)

(Per HUD guidelines)