News Release For Immediate Release August 15, 2005 Mayor Williams Tours Newly Redeveloped Property Under “Home Again” Initiative Mayor Greets New Homeowner and Her Family (Washington, DC) Mayor Anthony A. Williams today hosted an open house at 12 Farragut Place, NW, in celebration of new affordable housing on the unit block redeveloped under the District’s “Home Again” Initiative. Since 2002, more than 340 vacant and abandoned properties have been revitalized through a partnership with the District and 38 pre-qualified developers. A ceremonial ribbon-cutting took place on the steps of the home of Mila Hernandez who is now one of six new homeowners living in this northwest community where only a few years ago, vacant buildings languished in disrepair. “We are making great strides on the affordable housing front through the District’s Home Again Initiative,” said Mayor Williams. “This initiative is not only creating new homeowners in the District but it is fulfilling its mission to help eradicate vacant and abandoned properties citywide.” Mission First Development LLC, developer of the property, was the successful bidder, selected over other pre-qualified developers that responded to a Request for Proposals. Three other developers, the Marshall Heights Community Development Organization, Inc., Motir Stellar Builders and CIH/VMS Restoration, Inc. have all previously rehabilitated Home Again homes in this block. Home Again is designed to stabilize neighborhoods by removing blight and creating more affordable housing opportunities. To address this challenge, Home Again has two goals: 1) encourage property owners to rehabilitate and/or occupy their vacant and abandoned residential property; and 2) acquire, dispose of, and rehabilitate properties when owners fail to maintain them. Since its start in January 2002, Home Again has identified and investigated 1,035 vacant properties. Home Again’s efforts have resulted in 343 formerly vacant and abandoned properties being rehabilitated. Out of the 164 units created or being created by Home Again developers, 33 percent are dedicated as affordable for buyers earning less than 60 percent of the area median income. Developers must be pre-qualified in order to participate in the program. Thirty-eight developers are currently qualified. Those interested in becoming a pre-qualified developer can contact Home Again at (202) 478-1353 or visit the website.