Capital Region Community Investment Trust
Move from Owing to Owning.
The Capital Region Community Investment Trust (CIT) strengthens communities by empowering local residents to purchase real estate in their own neighborhood and work together to determine the highest and best use of that property. Through collaboration, local residents are able to turn their affordable investment shares, $10 to $100 monthly, into big buying power and real change!
How does it work?
Concerned residents buy affordable shares in the Community Investment Trust (CIT) through reasonable monthly payments of $10 to $100. This money purchases shares in a local property. Over time, investors build equity in that property and earn increasingly higher dividends.
Who’s eligible to participate?
Residents who live in the designated zipcodes are eligible to participate in the local CIT project. Investors must also participate in the free financial education program, “From Owing to Owning.”
Who benefits?
Investors and the surrounding community! Investors are building assets in their own back yard. Each year, they collect dividends on the investment property – 2% at minimum. As the investment property is paid off and becomes more profitable, investors begin to earn larger dividends on the investment – and just like that, they are building wealth.
But that’s not the only benefit! Investors also provide input on what businesses are located in the property. CIT empowers local residents to build a community that meets their day-to-day needs. Does the neighborhood need a grocery store or a fitness studio? What about a daycare or an afterschool program? A laundromat? A pharmacy? The community of investors comes together to identify the missing pieces and find ways to attract those businesses to their property. This community-centered approach to economic development ensures that the project truly serves local residents – ultimately building community and boosting the bottom line.
