There was a time, not so long ago, when houses were selling faster than a person could pound a "For Sale" sign in the yard, and new construction was happening at almost every turn. That time has ended, as can be noted by for sale signs that have weathered the winter, and new subdivisions without the sounds of concrete mixers, dump trucks and nail guns.
      The downturn in the real estate market may make the process of selling and getting into a new home more challenging; but for those in a position build a new home in Huxley, there are some financial incentives to take advantage of that would not be available in a housing boom.
      The City of Huxley is offering what they call a Community Incentive Program. Similar to an incentive that was offered from 1998 to 2003, the program will allow persons who build a new home to get up to $3,000 from the city at the completion of the home. City administrator John Haldeman said the city will match up to that amount against what the developer/builder is willing to contribute. The homeowner will then receive a check from the city within 10 business days of presenting a recorded deed in the applicant's name.
      "The first time we did this; it went exceptionally well," said Haldeman. "With the downturn in economic development, the town could use help to get things going again.
      Twenty-four participants took advantage of the previous incentive program, and Haldeman is confident this one will be a success as well. The city has already had two parties take part in the program.
      In order to qualify for the incentive program, the recipient of the funds must be the owner and occupant of the property, and the minimum price of the new home and lot must be $180,000. The property will not be eligible if it is part of, or in itself, receiving economic benefits from the city. In addition, if the developer is currently receiving a benefit from the city, they must release the lot from the developer agreement, according to Haldeman.
      Haldeman said he hopes the incentive program will spur growth in the city, as well as create construction jobs.
      There are two other possible ways to take part in the incentive program. The first is by replacing an existing home. If an existing home is torn down or destroyed by fire or natural causes, and a new home is built in its place, the homeowner is eligible to receive up to $1500 from the city. The value of the new structure must be $150,000 or greater, and must be assessed at 150 percent of the previous structure. In addition, all property taxes on the property must be paid and current, according to a city document detailing the program.
      The final segment of the program pertains to businesses in the Old Towne Commercial District. To qualify for the incentive, an existing commercial structure must be remodeled so the property's valuation is at least 50 percent greater than its value at the time the construction permit is issued. The owner of the property will be eligible for consideration to receive $1500 from the city, as long as all property taxes on the structure are paid and current, according to a city document detailing the program.
      Haldeman said the city is trying to make the process as easy as possible.
      "Hopefully, it will be as successful as last time," he said.