Enterprise Foundation relies, in part, on a "cost cuts" approach to rehabilitation ofrental properties, thus serving low-income families.  

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The low-cost rehab system has the following characteristics:
  • Given a choice, selection of properties in better condition.
  • Rehabbing occupied, rather than vacant, properties.
  • Work specifications by the agency doing the rehab.
  • "Partial" rather than "gut" rehab to save existing systems.
  • Carefully choosing repair methods and materials.
  • Downsizing -- not rehabbing more space than the family needs.
  • Minimal reconfiguring of the basic floor plan.
  • Applying prudent rehab codes rather than new construction codes.
  • Working with tenants of owners in place and avoiding relocation.
  • On smaller jobs, using neighborhood tradespeople or in-house crews.
  • Using salvaged or bargain-priced materials.
  • Expectations of sweat equity work if ownership is offered to able people.
  • Getting a flow of smaller projects, rather than "packaging" a big one.
From page 1-5, Cost Cuts Manual.

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