Three new factory-built homes in Schenectady, Syracuse, and Newcomb are kicking off a statewide initiative aimed at making homeownership more affordable for working families across New York.
The “MOVE-IN NY” program is now expanding to build up to 200 starter homes using a fast, cost-effective construction model. Each home takes just six months to complete and costs nearly half as much as a traditionally built home.
Cutting costs, building dreams
These aren’t tiny homes or temporary shelters. The starter houses include three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a garage, and a front porch—priced under $250,000 and sold below cost to qualified buyers.
Built in partnership with Champion Homes, the homes are assembled in a factory and then installed on vacant land owned by local land banks. Compared to traditional builds, this process is up to three times faster and significantly more affordable.
State officials say the initiative is a game-changer for young families, first-time buyers, and older residents looking to downsize—all struggling with rising home prices, high interest rates, and construction costs that often push new home builds well above $450,000.
Now expanding statewide
Backed by $50 million in state funding, the program is now open to local governments, land banks, nonprofit developers, and home manufacturers interested in bringing these factory-built homes—also called “CrossMods”—to more communities.
These homes meet federal safety standards and are eligible for conventional mortgages through Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Because of their traditional look and durable construction, they can fit seamlessly into urban, suburban, and rural neighborhoods.
Applications open today through New York State Homes and Community Renewal. More information is available at hcr.ny.gov/moveinny.
More than a pilot—proof of concept
Officials from Syracuse, Schenectady, and Essex County praised the pilot program’s speed and quality.
“We’re proving that we can bring new life to our neighborhoods and build the kinds of homes that let more people put down roots,” said State Senator Rachel May. “This is the kind of innovation we need.”
Nicole Justice Green, head of the Essex County Land Bank, said the project “marks a transformational moment” for rural communities. “We’re proving that innovative housing models can take root even in the most remote corners of the state,” she said.
Katelyn Wright of the Greater Syracuse Land Bank added: “CrossMods present a quick and affordable opportunity to put more quality, new, healthy housing units online.”
Part of a broader push for homeownership
This new effort builds on previous state programs supporting homeowners—like down payment assistance, emergency repair grants, and mortgage help for first-time buyers.
The state has already created or preserved more than 65,000 affordable homes since 2022, and this latest effort focuses squarely on ownership rather than just rentals.
With hundreds of new homes on the horizon, leaders say the goal is clear: help New Yorkers not just find a place to live, but build a future.
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