Piety Hill Residences & Detroit’s Affordable Housing Landscape

Two once-abandoned properties in Detroit’s Piety Hill neighborhood, the Kingsley Arms and Lee Arden buildings, are ushering in a new era for the city’s housing market.

With a combined total of 88 affordable housing units now available, this $10.3 million renovation project is a stepping stone toward solving Detroit’s housing challenges while signaling growth opportunities for forward-thinking landlords and investors.

Nestled strategically near Midtown, Wayne State University, and Tech Town, Piety Hill sits in a prime location between thriving neighborhoods like Boston-Edison to the west and the North End to the east.

Below, we’ll explore the key aspects of this revitalization effort and why it’s sparking attention in the investment community.

Revitalization with Purpose

The resurgence of Kingsley Arms and Lee Arden epitomizes Detroit’s commitment to reinvesting in its urban core. These two apartment buildings, located at 646 and 660 Hazelwood Street, had remained vacant for over a decade, emblematic of the city’s blight struggles. What was once a sign of decay is now a beacon of intentional progress, offering much-needed affordable housing in an area bustling with potential.

This project does more than provide shelter—it’s a carefully planned initiative to address affordability, environmental sustainability, and community demand.

Affordable Housing Designed for All

The 88 newly renovated units offer a variety of layouts, from compact studios to spacious two-bedroom apartments, catering to a broad audience including students, professionals, and budget-conscious families.

Key Features of the Residences

• Varied Unit Types

The development offers 4 studio apartments, 63 one-bedroom units, and 21 two-bedroom apartments, ensuring options for diverse household sizes.

• Accessible Rents

Monthly rent starts at an affordable $805, with additional guarantees of affordability lasting 13 years.

• Income-Based Availability

To ensure accessibility, 18 units are designated for residents earning 45% or less of the area median income (AMI), while another 18 are allocated for those earning up to 55% of AMI. The remaining units serve households earning 80% or less of AMI.

• Leasing Momentum

Interest in the property is growing rapidly, with Kingsley Arms already 60% leased and Lee Arden seeing steady occupancy growth at 20% leased.

These features not only highlight the feasibility of creating dignified, affordable housing but also underline the increasing demand for such options in Detroit. For investors, this demand represents stability and potential for steady returns.

Green Building for a Sustainable Future

Renovations at Kingsley Arms and Lee Arden extend beyond cosmetic improvements and focus on sustainability. By incorporating modern, eco-friendly upgrades, the properties are setting a standard for environmentally conscious urban development.

Sustainability Initiatives at a Glance

• Energy-Efficient Systems

Additions like LED lighting and water-efficient fixtures have earned the project $2.1 million in financing under the Wayne County Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Program.

• Cost Savings for Residents

Sustainable upgrades lower utility bills, making these units even more appealing to tenants.

Conscientious reconstruction efforts like these prioritize long-term ecological and financial benefits, attracting tenants who value both affordability and sustainability.

Why Detroit’s Affordable Housing Efforts Matter

Projects like the Kingsley Arms and Lee Arden renovations are part of Detroit’s broader effort to eliminate housing blight and boost neighborhood property values. These two renewed buildings are symbols of the city’s forward-thinking approach to urban challenges, combining economic growth with social equity.

Combating Blight for Neighborhood Renewal

Abandoned properties negatively impact neighborhoods by lowering property values and morale. The overhaul of long-neglected sites like Kingsley Arms and Lee Arden reverses these effects, signaling rejuvenation and increasing the appeal of the surrounding area.

When property values rise, the city benefits through increased tax revenue, further enabling reinvestment in public services and infrastructure. It’s a win-win for residents and municipalities alike.

Easing the Pressure on Rents

Detroit’s rental market continues to experience a mismatch between incomes and housing costs, driving demand for affordable units. By offering quality living spaces priced below market rates, Kingsley Arms and Lee Arden help stabilize the city’s rental ecosystem and prevent further strain on renters.

This balance is critical to creating a healthy housing market, one where property owners and tenants thrive together.

Why Investors Should Focus on Piety Hill

For landlords and developers, the Piety Hill district is quickly emerging as a zone to watch. Its proximity to cultural and economic hubs, coupled with an upward trajectory in property values, makes it a prime location for long-term investment.

Location, Location, Location

Positioned near Wayne State University, Tech Town, and Midtown, Piety Hill benefits from a highly desirable geographic setting that attracts a wide variety of renters. Its neighboring districts—like Boston-Edison with its historic charm and North End with its hip, up-and-coming vibe—add to its appeal, creating a ripple effect of desirability.

For tenants, this means a community-focused area with convenient access to educational and economic opportunities. For landlords, the steady flow of renters ensures minimized vacancy risks.

Demand Outpaces Supply

The high occupancy rates at Kingsley Arms and Lee Arden demonstrate the undeniable demand for affordable units in the neighborhood. With affordability at the forefront, these residences attract tenants seeking quality housing without breaking the bank.

Investors tapping into this unmet demand can expect not only consistent revenue streams but also a chance to anchor themselves in a transforming market.

A Blueprint for Growth and Stability

The renovation of these buildings is part of a larger trend of sustainable growth within Detroit’s affordable housing sector.

For investors, participating in projects like these allows for socially impactful development while offering financial rewards.

But success hinges on understanding the intricacies of affordable housing management, from property upkeep to tenant engagement.

Interested in learning how to leverage these opportunities? Contact us today to access exclusive off-market investment properties and turnkey rental options in Detroit, and join the movement reshaping the city’s housing future.

Explore how Piety Hill's Kingsley Arms and Lee Arden renovations are reshaping Detroit, creating affordable housing opportunities and attracting savvy investors