PRESS RELEASE: SENT Inc. Gives Update on New Heights & Fremont Hill: Partnerships Driving Affordable Housing Innovation in Topeka

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SENT Inc. Gives Update on New Heights & Fremont Hill: Partnerships Driving Affordable Housing Innovation in Topeka

Topeka, KS — SENT Inc. has announced major progress on New Heights, a signature subdivision within the larger Fremont Hill Development. Together, these initiatives represent one of the most innovative affordable housing models in Kansas, proving what is possible when philanthropy, financial institutions, insurers, and title companies align to create dignified, attainable homeownership.

Key Highlights:

  • Reduced Pricing – While the average 3-bedroom/2-bath/2-car garage home in Topeka sells for $300–$350k, homes in New Heights will begin at $185k (3BR) and $195k (4BR), with HOA dues of just $40/month.
  • Down Payment Assistance – Buyers may qualify for up to $27,500 through FHLBank Topeka programs, $15,000 through HSP, and $12,500 through HOPE, opening doors across the economic spectrum.
  • First-Year Insurance Assistance – World Insurance is establishing a dedicated fund to help offset the costs of first-year homeowners’ insurance. For coverage questions or to explore options, families may contact Derek Rowe, Unit Leader at World Insurance, 1415 SW Topeka Blvd, Topeka, KS 66612, Phone: (785) 271-8097 x221, Email: derekrowe@worldinsurance.com.
  • Title Work Partnership – Security 1st brings trusted expertise, a dedicated point of contact, and a commitment to walking with each family through the closing process. Their partnership ensures that the legal and financial foundation of every home purchase in New Heights is secure, affordable, and accessible.
  • Financial Backing – Kaw Valley Bank’s $2M financing, backed by The Kansas Health Foundation’s $1.8M impact investment pledge, provides the backbone to make dignified, attainable homeownership real. The KHF investment represents a long-term commitment to strengthening neighborhood transformation and improving community health outcomes by anchoring capital in Southeast Topeka. Kaw Valley Bank’s financing not only fuels construction but also ensures families have access to personalized mortgage guidance and competitive rates, making the lending process approachable and family-friendly. In addition, SENT has created an innovative investment model that allows investors to receive a 2.5% annual return while fueling affordable housing development—showing that social good and financial return can work hand in hand. Together, these partners demonstrate how philanthropy, local financial institutions, and private investors can join forces to accelerate affordable housing in innovative ways.

Fremont Hill Expansion

The full Fremont Hill Development will deliver 176 multi-family units (Johnson-Betts Meadows) and 43 single-family homes (New Heights). SENT is leveraging the Reinvestment Housing Incentive District (RHID) to offset infrastructure costs and protect affordability for future residents.

Why It Matters

SENT’s model integrates wraparound services with mixed-income housing, incorporating multiple housing types to holistically support families. This innovative framework strengthens Southeast Topeka today and sets a replicable standard for communities statewide.

Quote from Johnathan Sublet, Executive Director of SENT Inc.:
“We believe that safe, dignified, and affordable housing is the foundation for neighborhood transformation. New Heights and Fremont Hill show what is possible when partners align purpose with action.”

The project is set to begin construction in early 2026. SENT Inc. invites the community to stay informed about the project and future opportunities by following SENT on social media (Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn).

For more information about the project, please contact Johnathan Sublet at johnathan@senttopeka.com. For information about buying or renting, please visit this link.

About SENT Inc.

SENT Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming the Southeast Topeka community through affordable housing, comprehensive family support services, and neighborhood revitalization. SENT works alongside community members to address critical issues like housing insecurity, mental health, food insecurity, and educational disparities, ensuring that families have the resources and support they need to thrive.

Media Contact:

Johnathan Sublet
Executive Director
SENT Inc.
Phone: 785-783-2535
Email: johnathan@senttopeka.com
Website: www.senttopeka.com

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