The Housing Revitalization Program is focused on improving owner occupied housing in Council Bluffs. The 712 Initiative purchases homes that are in need of substantial improvements, makes those improvements (safety, major systems, curb appeal) and lists the completed product on the market for owner occupied housing. The ultimate goal is to improve our neighborhoods and provide quality housing. 
Current Projects:
| 2914 8th Avenue | 340 Lawton Terrace | The Row on 1st (1st Avenue & S 24th Street) | 219 Bluff Street |
Completed Projects:
Why a Housing Revitalization Program?
Our community has a housing shortage that affects our ability to grow. One way to address this is by restoring our existing housing stock through rehabilitation. 
The 712 Initiative is working to purchase properties in poor condition with the intent of completing a full renovation. Renovating the property helps to preserve the architectural fabric of the community and once renovated, the property can realize its full potential and ultimately improve the block.
Looking to buy? Find financial resource help from the Iowa Finance Authority
The Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) has launched a first-time homebuyer toolkit complete with different resources, such as a guide and a checklist, to educate new and experienced homebuyers.
There’s a page where homebuyers can learn about IFA programs and sign up to receive the first resource in your toolkit, the homebuyer guide. After signing up, homebuyers will receive a new resource each week to inform them on different aspects of the home buying journey.
IFA is a state agency that helps low- and moderate-income Iowans attain housing through mortgage, down payment, and other relevant programs. Working to enhance the quality of life across our communities and connecting people with affordable financing resources to help turn your dreams into untold realities.
These programs can be utilized to purchase homes revitalized by The 712 Initiative (under the Housing Revitalization Program) as well as any other homes on the market. You can learn more about their homebuyer programs at iowafinance.com.
For help locally contact one of the following.
- Jennifer Coyle with Flat Branch Home Loans at (402) 689-8034 or jcoyle@fbhl.com
- Meggan Jensen with Benchmark Mortgage at (402) 630-6828 or meggan.jensen@benchmark.us
- Nicki Montelongo with First National Bank of Omaha at (712) 435-5066 or nmontelongo@fnni.com
