Greer highlights East Fairview Townhomes and down-payment help to aid first-time buyers

Alex Kale, planning and development director for the city of Greer, outlined a new affordable-housing opportunity Tuesday, saying the East Fairview Townhomes project and partner assistance can help first-time buyers get into homeownership.

Kale said the townhomes were developed in partnership between the Greenville County Redevelopment Authority and the city of Greer. “We have seen 14 homes built and six of them are currently housing a family or a household,” he said, describing the units as three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath homes with a one-car garage and interior amenities.

“The homes are priced at about $250,000,” Kale said. “However, with down payment assistance through GCRA and Community Works, each home sells at about $180,000.” He framed the program as an opportunity for buyers who have not previously owned a home to build equity and long-term wealth.

Kale said the city completed a housing assessment and strategy report that identified gaps in the local housing supply and that Greer’s development process — including permitting and collaboration with development partners — helps advance projects aimed at addressing those gaps. He said the East Fairview units are intended to serve local workers, naming police officers, public service workers and restaurant workers among those who would benefit.

For interested buyers, Kale urged contact with Greer housing via cityofgreersc.gov or the Greenville County Redevelopment Authority and Julie Hollman to begin the application process and determine eligibility. He said the outreach will clarify whether potential buyers can use the available down-payment assistance.

No formal vote or city action was announced during the remarks; Kale presented the project as an existing development and an ongoing opportunity for eligible first-time buyers.