How to Build on a Land Bank Lot

Step 1.Check out the Available Properties

You can use the interactive Land Bank Map.

When you access the map, make sure that you select the tab that will best fit the type of improvement you would like to do.

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Once you find the property you are interested in make note of the parcel number and the address. You will need them later in the application process.

Step 2.Understand the Timeline

It is important to understand the basic time requirements before you start to apply or plan your project.

• The approval process may take one to two months to complete.
• Each project must be shared with area neighborhood groups and Neighborhood Business Revitalization Organization's (NBR) for input.
• Each project must be reviewed by our offices of Planning and Urban Design, Building Inspection, Public Works, and Legal.
• Each project must be approved by the UG Commission.
• When scheduling the project to be heard by the UG Commission we must adhere to the scheduling deadlines.
• The option period for permits, plans, approvals, and proof of funds is one year only.

Step 3.Review Helpful Resources

We are here to help by providing information about processes for viable home models that would be convenient, affordable, and practical to build.

Check out our resources page for support on items like:

• Zoning regulation resources
• Sewer locations
• Demolition history
• Requirements of historic districts
• And more

Step 4.Make a Plan

Having a well thought out plan will increase the likelihood that your project will be approved quickly, and the project is the success we all want it to be.

You should be ready to answer these questions during the application process.

• What do you plan to build or what improvements will you make?
• Details like the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and estimated square footage.
• What is your estimated project start and completion dates?
• Who will do the work?
• If you are planning on doing the work, do you have construction experience?
• What is the reason(s) you want to build or improve the lot?

Step 5.Gather Information

You will need several pieces of information to get started. Filling out the application will be quick and easy if you have these items ready to go.

• Parcel number.
• Address of the lot.
• Example pictures or drawing of what you plan to build.
• Know who your area neighborhood groups and Neighborhood Business Revitalization Organization's (NBR).

Step 6.Complete the Application

Apply Now!

Step 7.Know What to Expect Next

Each proposed plan must be presented to the Unified Government Board of Commission. We are here to support and assist you through this process. Here are some things you need to know.

Land Bank Staff will:

• Share your project with area neighborhood groups and Neighborhood Business Revitalization Organization's (NBR) and gather feedback.
• Review your project with Planning and Urban Design, Building Inspection, Public Works, and Legal.
• Schedule your project to be heard at a Unified Government Standing Committee and Full Commission meeting.
• Share the scheduled meeting date and time with you.
• Create a presentation for your project and send it to you for review before the scheduled meetings.
• Provide a to-do list of items that need approvals and any staff recommendations to complete your project.
• Support you after approval for any Options agreements.

Step 8.Prepare to Complete an Option

To complete the option the Land Bank will need:

• Approved building permit.
• Planning approval.
• Proof of funds to cover building estimate.

Step 9.Prepare to Take Ownership

Once the option is completed the Land Bank will transfer ownership of the property with a quit claim deed.

At your closing the Land Bank will need:

• Legal name for deed.
• Mailing address for the tax statements.
• Valid ID for the notary.
• $2,000 deposit that will be refunded once the home passes the final building inspection.

Step 10.Start Building!

Step 1.Purpose

• To hold the property for the applicant while they plan to build.
• Give site control to create building plans.
• Give time to pursue financing.
• Acquire necessary building approvals.

Step 2.Agreement

• One year to hold on the property. This agreement can be extended, with Land Bank Staff approval, if progress has been made.
• May not occupy the property.
• Option fee: $100 Residential, $500 larger developments.
• Maintain the property: cut grass and keep the property clear of debris.
• Option Agreement Example: Option Agreement for Land Bank Properties(PDF, 214KB)

Step 3.Qualified Applicants

• Must not have any code active code violations.
• May not have any tax-delinquent properties.
• Not barred from transactions with local governments.
• Failed prior transactions with the Land Bank (please clarify).
• Banned from bidding at the tax sale (please clarify).

Step 4.Items Needed to Complete Option

• Building permit.
• Planning approval.
• Cost estimate to build.
• Proof of funds to cover cost estimate.

Step 1.One Dollar ($1) Land Bank Lots

Most lots in the Land Bank inventory can be purchased for $1 for new construction of a home or commercial buildings.

Step 2.Permit and Construction Fee Waiver Program

The Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kansas, and the Kansas City Board of Public Utilities (BPU) have partnered to offer housing incentives for new single-family homes and duplex construction. The UG and BPU will waive all permit and connection fees when a new single-family home or duplex is constructed on vacant lots east of 78^th St. Construction must commence within the two-year pilot period. Subdivisions are excluded from the fee waiver program.

Step 3.Neighborhood Revitalization Act (NRA) Tax Rebate Program

The Neighborhood Revitalization Act (NRA) Tax Rebate Program awards property owners a rebate on additional taxes levied because of property improvements. The purpose of the tax rebate program is to promote revitalization through rehabilitation, conservation, or redevelopment. Both residential and commercial projects qualify for rebate consideration.

General Eligibility Requirements:

• Project must be located within a designated NRA Project Area.
• Applicant cannot have delinquent property taxes on any property currently owned by the applicant in Wyandotte County.
• Improvements to the property must conform to all applicable codes, rules, ordinances, and regulations.
• Improvements must increase the assessed value by 15% and must be verified by a UG Appraiser.
• Application and supporting documents must be submitted within 30 days of the start of construction.
• Post-construction documents must be submitted within 30 days of project completion.

Find out more about the program and the online application.

Step 1.Find a Lot

Find a lot currently in the inventory that meets your needs.

Step 2.Make Some Plans

Make some plans about what you want to do.

Step 3.Complete the Inquiry Form

Follow the HOW TO BUILD tab steps and complete the inquiry form.

Step 4.Receive a List of Items

We will give you a list of items you will need to do or complete before we can ask for approval.

Step 5.Get Approved

The Unified Government Board or Commission must approve any plans for lots.

Step 6.Options Period Rules

Follow the rules for the Options Period.

Step 7.Deed the Property

After steps 1-6 are completed, we can deed the property.

Step 8.Start building or improving the lot!