Mission Driven Landlord

Housing with purpose

What does it mean to be a Mission-Driven Landlord?

As a mission-driven landlord, the ‘Sconset Trust will:

  • Prioritize Sconset’s Commercial Core – Whenever possible, the Trust’s properties will be used to support local businesses with a physical footprint in the village.  This includes residential properties, which will be used primarily as employee housing for local businesses.
  • Charge Balanced Rental Rates – The Trust will periodically solicit input from real-estate brokers on the range of market rental rates and offer its properties for rent near the low end of suggested market rates, subject to break-even financial goals. This balanced approach should help preserve the commercial core while supporting the Trust’s mission and non-profit status. 
  • Operate Fairly – The Trust will advertise available units to all ‘Sconset businesses as they become available. It will select tenants based on a candidate’s ability to contribute to the commercial core and meet lease terms and durations. Ideally, leases will balance the Trust’s need to ensure that properties are fiscally sustainable with the need to ensure the viability of the commercial core.
  • Be a Good Neighbor – The Trust’s properties must be managed responsibly and fit seamlessly with the community. Tenants are expected to be “good neighbors” and commit to established House Rules included in all Trust lease agreements.
  • Lead by Example – As a mission-driven landlord, the Trust will reinforce its own best preservation practices in how it maintains and protects rental properties. Structures and landscaping will be well kept, and natural materials and historic colors employed where possible. Historic Preservation Restrictions will be pursued where applicable, while maintaining enough flexibility for structures to support their desired purposes. Capital improvements will be pursued in compliance with the local Historic District Commission.

In addition to land conservation and historic preservation, the ‘Sconset Trust’s mission includes fostering a healthy commercial center in the village.