Building a Future of Sustainable and Affordable Housing in Topeka

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A Comprehensive Look at SENT Inc.’s Vision for Community-Centered Housing

At SENT Inc., we believe that a home is the foundation for personal and community growth. That’s why we are committed to transforming Topeka’s housing landscape through bold, innovative projects that blend sustainability, affordability, and strategic partnerships. By addressing the unique needs of our community, we are not just building homes—we are creating pathways to long-term stability, dignity, and opportunity for families.

Through initiatives like our Net Zero Package of Four Homes and our plans for the New Heights Workforce Development Subdivision and the Johnson-Betts Meadows Multifamily Development, SENT is redefining how housing can empower individuals and revitalize neighborhoods. Join us as we outline the vision, partnerships, and strategies behind these transformative projects.

Net Zero Package of Four Homes: Sustainable, Affordable, and Replicable

SENT Inc., in partnership with Helia Studios, is developing a Net Zero Package of Four Homes that combines affordability, sustainability, and community impact. These innovative homes will reduce the cost of living for residents while contributing to environmental stewardship and neighborhood revitalization.

Design & Purpose

  • Energy Efficiency: Each home is designed to be net-zero, generating as much energy as it consumes through state-of-the-art solar panels, high-performance insulation, and energy-efficient HVAC systems.
  • Modern Layouts: These 3-bedroom, 2-bath homes are designed with open-concept living spaces, large kitchens, and flexible areas for work or play.
  • Durable Materials: Constructed using sustainable and durable materials to minimize long-term maintenance costs while maximizing environmental benefits.
  • Community Impact: One home will be sold, generating revenue to offset project costs, while the other three homes will serve as affordable rentals managed by the Topeka Housing Authority, ensuring long-term affordability and stability for residents.
  • Smart Features: Homes include smart thermostats, energy monitoring systems, and water-saving fixtures to further enhance sustainability and reduce utility expenses for families. These could keep the end-user from having energy bills for two-thirds of the year.

Key Financial Structure:

  • $150,000 in HOME-ARP funding for each of the three rental homes.
  • $75,000 of SORT funding for the home designated for sale.
  • Revenue from the sale will cover the construction costs of the rental units, ensuring they remain debt-free and enabling SENT to reinvest in future projects.

Financing Innovation

  • Neighborhood Revitalization Program (NRP): The City of Topeka’s NRP provides a 95% tax rebate for the first 10 years, dramatically reducing operating costs.
  • FHLBank Programs: SENT will attempt to have buyers access multiple grant programs to lower their cost of ownership:
    • Homeownership Set-aside Program (HSP): $15,000 per household for down payment and closing costs.
    • Homeownership Opportunities Expanded (HOPE): $12,500 per household for purchase-related assistance.

Bravo Ridge Development and Up Right Construction will partner with SENT on the Net Zero Package of Four Homes, ensuring quality construction and efficient project management.

These rental units will be managed by the Topeka Housing Authority, with rent capped at 30% of tenants’ incomes for 15-20 years, ensuring long-term affordability. These homes will be built on in-fill lots within the Hi-Crest community but are designed to fit within any of Topeka’s neighborhoods. SENT plans to break ground on this project in the spring of 2025.

New Heights Workforce Development Subdivision: A Tribute to Our Community’s Workers

The New Heights subdivision at Fremont Hill West is planned to be a transformative development designed to provide affordable, high-quality single-family homes while honoring the legacy of local leader Dr. Beryl New. This project combines thoughtful design, strategic partnerships, and innovative financing to create opportunities for homeownership for teachers, single mothers, and working families. Dr. New’s commitment to education and community has been an inspiration, and this development is dedicated to her vision of empowering families and strengthening neighborhoods.

Project Scope:

New Heights will feature 48 single-family homes, starting with the first 10 homes in partnership with Bravo Ridge Development. The development will provide affordable, high-quality homes, including:

  • 7 three-bedroom homes, priced at $185,000 each.
  • 3 four-bedroom homes, priced at $195,000 each.

These homes are priced almost $50,000 below the average home cost in Topeka, making them an incredible opportunity for families who would not typically be able to afford homeownership. The plan is scalable, repeating this process five times for the full development of up to 48 homes.

Project Highlights:

  • Construction of 10 homes at a time using short-term financing.
  • Innovative investor model offering a 5% return.
  • Focus on bridging the gap between affordability and sustainability.
  • Use of LW Development products—a trusted partner responsible for developing 51% of the affordable housing in the state of Oklahoma.

Financing Innovation:

  • RHID Program: Leverages Topeka’s Rural Housing Incentive District to reduce development costs.
  • FHLBank Programs: SENT will attempt to access multiple grant programs to further lower costs for homebuyers: 
    • Affordable Housing Program (AHP): Grants up to $1.5 million per project.
    • Homeownership Set-aside Program (HSP): $15,000 per household for down payment and closing costs.
    • Homeownership Opportunities Expanded (HOPE): $12,500 per household for purchase-related assistance.

Bravo Ridge Development and Up Right Construction will partner with SENT on this initiative, ensuring efficient development and quality housing.

By avoiding traditional HUD or tax credit funding, we ensure that working families who contribute to the fabric of our community can achieve homeownership, build generational wealth, and enjoy long-term stability. SENT hopes to break ground on this project in the summer of 2025.

Johnson-Betts Meadows Multifamily Development: A Cornerstone of Equitable Housing

In collaboration with Topeka Housing Authority, HTK Architects, and Hoppe-Mesner developers, we plan to bring 176 affordable units to Southeast Topeka through the Johnson-Betts Meadows project. By securing Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) funding and leveraging community-driven design, this development will provide safe, high-quality, and affordable living spaces for families in the Low-to-Moderate Income (LMI) category.

Strategic Incentives:

  • Use of the Rural Housing Incentive District (RHID) program.
  • Community input is integrated into the design to ensure alignment with local needs.

SENT hopes to close this deal by the end of 2025 and begin construction in the spring of 2026.

Tailored Housing Eligibility to Meet Community Needs

SENT ensures that housing opportunities are accessible and tailored to the needs of Topeka’s diverse population:

  • SENT Rentals: Managed by the Topeka Housing Authority.
  • SORT & HUD-Funded Homes: Available to applicants earning 80% or less of the Area Median Income (AMI).
  • New Heights Homes: No income restrictions, allowing families traditionally left out to achieve homeownership.
  • Johnson-Betts Meadows: Reserved for LMI families making 60% or below of the AMI.

All SENT-owned homes sold must be owner-occupied, and we retain the first right of refusal to repurchase them—ensuring these homes remain affordable and serve their intended purpose.

A Vision for Topeka’s Future

At SENT, we’re not just building homes—we’re creating opportunities for generational wealth, stability, and community growth. By combining innovative design, strategic funding, and collaborative partnerships, our housing initiatives serve as a model for sustainable, scalable impact. Each project is a step toward a more equitable and vibrant Topeka.

We invite partners, investors, and community leaders to join us in shaping this legacy. Together, we can redefine what it means to live sustainably and affordably while building pathways to a brighter future.

For more information, contact:
 Johnathan Sublet, Executive Director
 Email: johnathan@senttopeka.com
 Website: www.senttopeka.com

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