State program targets vacant Buffalo apartments with rehab incentive ….

State Program Targets Vacant Buffalo Apartments with Rehab Incentive

New York State has launched a transformative initiative aimed at revitalizing vacant rental units across Buffalo. The Vacant Rental Program (VRP), introduced by State Senator Sean Ryan, offers grants to small landlords for renovating uninhabitable apartments, with the goal of increasing the availability of affordable housing in the region.(nysenate.gov, nysenate.gov)

Program Overview

The VRP provides grants of up to $75,000 for property owners to rehabilitate vacant units. In exchange, landlords commit to renting the renovated units at affordable rates for a period of 10 years. The program is designed to assist small, local, and responsible landlords in bringing vacant properties back into productive use, thereby addressing the housing shortage in Buffalo and other parts of Upstate New York. (reddit.com, nysenate.gov)

Funding and Administration

Senator Ryan secured $40 million in funding for the VRP as part of the 2025 state budget. Of this, over $10.6 million has been allocated specifically for Western New York. The grants are being administered by various not-for-profit organizations and local governments across the region. In Buffalo, three entities are responsible for distributing the funds:(nysenate.gov, nysenate.gov)

• East Buffalo Development Corporation
• Broadway Fillmore Neighborhood Housing Services
• City of Buffalo (via the Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency)(hcr.ny.gov, nysenate.gov, nysenate.gov)

These organizations are now accepting applications from landlords interested in participating in the program. (nysenate.gov)

Eligibility and Application Process

To qualify for the VRP, property owners must meet certain criteria:(nysenate.gov)

• Ownership of a 1- to 5-unit residential property or a mixed-use building with up to five housing units.
• Commitment to rent the rehabilitated units at affordable rates for a 10-year period.
• Compliance with all local building codes and regulations during the renovation process.(hcr.ny.gov, nysenate.gov)

Landlords can apply for grants through the designated local administrators serving their area. Each administrator has its own application process and deadlines. For instance, the East Buffalo Development Corporation is accepting applications for properties on the East Side of Buffalo. (nysenate.gov, eastbuffalodevelopment.org)

Impact on Buffalo’s Housing Landscape

The VRP is part of a broader effort by the state to address the housing crisis in Buffalo. In recent years, several projects have been undertaken to rehabilitate vacant properties and create affordable housing options. For example, the transformation of the former Public School 78 into the Olympic Avenue Apartments has provided 46 affordable units, including accommodations for individuals with disabilities. (nysenate.gov, esd.ny.gov)

Additionally, the rehabilitation of McCarley Gardens Apartments has preserved 149 affordable units, incorporating energy-efficient upgrades and safety improvements. (hcr.ny.gov)

These initiatives, along with the VRP, demonstrate the state’s commitment to revitalizing neighborhoods, supporting local landlords, and ensuring that all residents have access to safe and affordable housing.

Conclusion

The Vacant Rental Program represents a significant step toward addressing Buffalo’s housing challenges. By providing financial incentives for property owners to renovate vacant units, the program not only improves the quality of housing but also contributes to the overall revitalization of communities across the city. Landlords interested in participating are encouraged to contact the appropriate local administrator to begin the application process.(nysenate.gov)