BLOG

Last month, we announced this story about a partnership with Homes of Hope in Rock Hill.

Below is what the Columbia Business Report wrote about this project.

"In a collaborative effort to strengthen the landscape of affordable housing in South Carolina, Homes of Hope and Affordable Upstate have finalized the transfer of 18 single-family rental homes in Rock Hill.



This partnership safeguards the affordability of the units while supporting the continued growth and mission-driven work of both organizations, a news release stated.

The project reflects a shared vision: ensuring that South Carolina families continue to have access to stable, affordable housing — even as the region faces escalating housing costs and a significant shortage of quality affordable units, the release stated.

“This transaction will be transformational in its impact, and more importantly, incredibly stabilizing for the families living in these homes,” said Don Oglesby, president and CEO of Homes of Hope, in the release.

The homes will remain affordable under the stewardship of Affordable Upstate, whose mission is to preserve affordability through intentional ownership and community-centered housing solutions, the release stated.

This strategic decision allows Homes of Hope, a leading provider of affordable housing and workforce development in South Carolina, to maximize its capital needs while ensuring the long-term affordability of these homes for families who need them most, the release stated. The sale reflects a shared commitment to addressing the region’s deepening housing crisis through thoughtful collaboration and forward-looking solutions.

South Carolina faces a dire shortage of affordable housing, with thousands of families burdened by rising rents and limited housing options, according to the release. By transitioning ownership of the Rock Hill properties to Affordable Upstate, Homes of Hope ensures continuity in affordability while preserving the integrity of its mission and positioning itself for continued impact in the years ahead.

“Through a model that seamlessly integrates collaboration across sectors, Homes of Hope shows what’s possible when cities, nonprofits, investors, and developers unite around a shared vision,” said Mario Brown, co-founder and CEO of Affordable Upstate, in the release. “We are especially grateful for the Fieldmont Group and Clark Merritt, whose deep management experience and facilitation will play a pivotal role in preserving the legacy of affordability that Homes of Hope has established here.”