Was HTB formerly known as FACLT? 

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Yes. In 2025, the organization was renamed from Frankfort Area Community Land Trust (FACLT) to the Housing Trust of Benzie (HTB). This change was made to better represent the mission of HTB, which serves the wider region of Benzie County. Welcome!

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How do I contact HTB? 

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Click here to view our contact information and connect with us on social media. 

 

What is the HTB vision statement?

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We envision a Benzie County where everyone who contributes to the vitality of our community—year-round families, essential workers, seniors, and others—can put down roots. By building well-located, quality homes at attainable prices, we aim to preserve the character, ecology, and affordability of our region for generations to come.

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What is the HTB mission statement?

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The Housing Trust of Benzie creates and sustains attainable housing for the people who live and work in our region. We steward land in ways that stabilize neighborhoods, protect the natural environment, and strengthen year-round community life. Through education, responsible development, and long-term resident access and engagement, we foster housing solutions that reflect the values, workforce, and character of Benzie County.

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What is a Community Land Trust?

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A Community Land Trust (CLT) is a nonprofit that acquires and holds land “in trust” for the benefit of the community, ensuring that housing and other uses remain permanently affordable. CLTs separate ownership of land from ownership of homes, lowering the cost of homeownership and protecting long-term community involvement. There are more than 300 CLTs operating in the United States today—across nearly every state—stewarding over 20,000 homes. In addition to housing, CLTs may also support community gardens, commercial spaces, farms, and public infrastructure.

 

Who qualifies for a Housing Trust home?

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These homes are specially priced for working individuals and families whose incomes fall between 60 and 120 percent of Benzie County’s Area Median Income (AMI), and who are employed in or relocating to Benzie County for work.

 

Who reviews applications and financial eligibility?

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We partner with Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency (NMCAA) to manage the application and screening process. NMCAA is a well-established regional nonprofit with decades of experience in housing counseling, financial education, and community support. They review financial documentation, confirm income eligibility, and guide qualified buyers through homebuyer education and mortgage readiness. This partnership ensures privacy, transparency, and fairness, while allowing the Housing Trust of Benzie to focus on creating and stewarding permanently attainable homes.

 

Who are the people buying Housing Trust homes?

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Our homebuyers are the very people who help make Benzie County a thriving, year-round community. The first four Grove Place homes were purchased by a librarian, a food service worker, a graphic designer, a grocery store department manager, a construction worker, a student, and a member of local government. These are individuals and families who live and work here, who had been priced out of the market but deeply wanted to stay and contribute to the region they call home.