Revitalizing Florence One Home at a Time
Florence has a glimmer of hope lighting up its neighborhoods with the completion of a remarkable housing rehabilitation project. The Building Florence Together Community Development Corporation has just wrapped up its very first project, and it’s turning heads in the community. Located at 320 S. Gaillard Street, this revived home proves that change is not only possible but also incredibly impactful.
The Mission Behind the Movement
So, what’s all the fuss about? Well, Florence is working to tackle a growing concern—the need for affordable and accessible housing. Over the past year, the request for home rehabilitation has surged by a striking 13 percent. Recognizing this pressing need, the city established the Building Florence Together Community Development Corporation back in 2021. Fast forward to 2023, the city brought aboard Michelle Morgan as executive director, and it didn’t take long before they made their mark.
From RUndown to Revitalized
The journey started in October 2023 when the organization bought a house that had seen better days. After a whirlwind of activity, the property hit the market on September 13, and by the 16th, it was already under contract at the full asking price of $219,000. It’s a spacious 1,899 square feet with three bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms, making it an appealing option for families looking for reasonably priced housing, especially since the median home price in Florence usually sits between $260,000 and $275,000.
A Balance of History and Modern Living
This home isn’t just about affordability—it’s also about preserving the charm of its origins. Originally built in 1910, the team aimed to maintain some historical features while modernizing the overall structure. “We took an old house, kept some of the historical finishes, and modernized it to attract some new buyers,” Morgan shared. However, what began as a $100,000 renovation budget escalated to approximately $130,000, a testament to the extent of care and attention the project required. But the results speak for themselves—the house was appraised at $80,000 before renovations and surged to $237,000 afterward.
Creating Community Impact
This project stands out because it’s not just about one revitalized home; it’s about inspiring the community and encouraging further development in the area. With McLeod Hospital just a block away, the strategic location adds to the potential for growth in the neighborhood. The organization aims to create not just homes, but thriving, well-rounded communities. According to the Board of Directors President, Byron Jones, owning a home can transform lives, stating, “It changes lives and communities.”
Tackling a Growing Crisis
Homeownership in Florence feels like a tall order as demand for affordable housing has skyrocketed since the onset of COVID-19. Unfortunately, the resources haven’t kept pace with this increased need, especially for middle-class families. “South Carolina is growing, but the Pee Dee area is too,” Jones commented, emphasizing the importance of having robust housing options available.
Future Plans and Support
The work doesn’t stop here. Both the corporation and the city acknowledge that addressing the housing crisis will require concerted efforts and support from both private and public sectors. They are not only focused on physical structures but are equally committed to the “rehabilitation of people.” With the help of a new Home Buyer Assistance Program, they aim to equip individuals with financial literacy to set them up for long-term success in homeownership. The assistance acts as a second deferred mortgage, which can eventually lead to zero payment after 15 years if the homeowner remains in the property.
Looking Ahead
“This is only the beginning,” Jones concluded. The momentum of this project is proof of what can happen when communities unite for a common cause. With new initiatives underway, Florence is on a path toward revitalization, reclaiming its past vibrancy, and paving the way for a promising future for its residents.
