Division of Land Redevelopment

 

Before and after examples of new construction projects  Before and after examples of renovation projects Before and after examples of interior renovations

Land Bank Program

The Division of Land Redevelopment oversees the Columbus Land Bank, a program created to acquire vacant and abandoned properties and return them to productive community assets. The Columbus Land Bank works closely with the Franklin County Land Bank, Central Ohio Community Improvement Corporation (COCIC), on various projects.  More information on COCIC can be found on their website.

Properties For Sale

The majority of the properties managed by the Land Bank are reserved for ongoing and future community redevelopment and affordable housing initiatives. Current inventory for sale can be found here.

Applications

Land Bank Program requires submittal and approval of applications to purchase property. Each property listing will have a link to apply online or a pdf version of the application may be found here.  No offers via sale contracts will be accepted. 

Land Bank Opportunities

Community Gardens

Each year, the Land Bank licenses approximately 90 properties for various community gardens, urban farms, community beautification projects and similar activities. Sites are licensed for one year with yearly renewal options. If you are looking for a parcel in a certain area, please contact the Garden Coordinator.

Owner Occupant Incentive Program

The Owner Occupant Incentive Program allows eligible applicants the opportunity to purchase Land Bank properties at a reduced cost during a specified listing period. To qualify, applicants must show proof of funds, rehabilitation or new construction experience, submit rehabilitation or new construction plans, and agree to occupy the structure for a minimum of five years after completion. The asking price is discounted by 50% for applicants participating in this program. To apply and to view a complete list of criteria, please review the Land Bank application.

Moderately Priced Housing Incentive Program

The Moderately Priced Housing Incentive Program was created to increase the amount of moderately priced residential units in Columbus neighborhoods. Eligible buyers who agree to develop housing using existing affordable housing programs or who provide moderately priced housing will be offered a reduced price. To qualify, applicants must show proof of funds, rehabilitation or new construction experience, submit associated rehab or construction plans, proposed sale prices and rents, and agree to a restrictive covenant. To apply and to view a complete list of eligibility criteria, please review the Land Bank application.

Central Ohio Community Land Trust

The Columbus Land Bank helped create the Central Ohio Community Land Trust (COCLT) to turn Land Bank properties into affordable home ownership opportunities. More information on COCLT, including how to purchase COCLT houses, can be found here.

Examples of structures built by the Central Ohio Community Land Trust

General Land Bank Policies and Frequently Asked Questions

Reporting issues with a Land Bank Property

To report an issue with a Land Bank property, please email us, call us at 614.645.5263 or submit a 311 request. Be sure to identify the Land Bank parcel that needs attention.