nice things

Newark’s Valentine’s Day Vacant-Lot Sale Was a Big Success

Newark, New Jersey’s plan to sell 100 vacant lots on Valentine’s Day was a big success. Hundreds of people showed up at City Hall on Saturday in the hopes of getting in on the deal, which allowed couples to buy a plot of land for just $1,000. According to CBS 2, buyers had to put down a $500 deposit (the second $500 will be paid at closing) and must “commit to build houses on the properties within 18 months and live there for five years.” “It’s an opportunity for us to try to bring people back to the neighborhood and give life to the city,” said Keith Hamilton, who manages Newark’s city-owned properties. Unfortunately, there were more prospective purchasers than there were available lots, but Hamilton said that the city hopes to do the sale again next year. Sure, it’s not the sexiest way to spend Valentine’s Day, but sometimes it’s worth it to be practical. 

Newark’s Vacant-Lot Sale Was a Big Success