Seattle considers ‘Do Not Solicit List’ to block predatory real estate activity and slow displacement

Representatives from the Black Legacy Homeowners group are expected to be part of a panel discussion as part of Monday’s session

The Seattle City Council is considering protections hoped to help shield homeowners from predatory home-buying practices that target communities of color and vulnerable populations in an effort to slow displacement and erosion of generational wealth.

A proposed ordinance part of the Housing, Arts, and Civil Rights Committee’s Monday session would establish a new unfair housing practice in the city to protect homeowners from unwanted, unsolicited offers to purchase their residential properties. Administered by the Office of Civil Rights, the legislation would create a citywide “Do Not Solicit List” to safeguard resident privacy, prevent predatory real estate practices, and help slow the displacement of vulnerable communities.

According to the council’s analysis, homeowners across Seattle have reported excessive, unwanted solicitations to sell their homes. These unsolicited offers can result in owners selling below market value. Continue reading →

Central Area Youth Association makes plans for new community space and 37 new affordable Central District homes at 23rd and Yesler

(Image: Allied8)

(Image: King County)

A project to build 37 new affordable Central District homes — and new space for a nonprofit dedicated to the area’s Black communities — will further equitable development efforts in the neighborhood and is ready to take shape at 23rd and Yesler.

Officials say after years of advocacy, planning is underway for the groundbreaking of the four-story project that will replace the Central Area Youth Association center on the busy corner. The 1920-era building will be demolished to make way for the new development but the project will create a new street-level community space for the organization below 37 new homes above. Continue reading →