Addressing Housing Gaps with DakotaPlex and BuildSpec
In this episode of The Housing Connection podcast, Mike Harsma, Director of Single Family Development and the Governors House Program at South Dakota Housing, discusses two helpful programs from South Dakota Housing. The programs, DakotaPlex and BuildSpec, aim to help with housing shortages in South Dakota. These initiatives bring flexible, affordable solutions to underserved communities and empower local builders.
DakotaPlex
DakotaPlex offers modular housing units for communities with populations under 5,000. These unique units are duplexes, triplexes, or fourplexes, with options for garages and configurations to meet local needs.
The program is simple, from compliance to development. This makes it easy for volunteer-led initiatives to succeed in solving housing shortages. Success stories like Tyndall, South Dakota, show how DakotaPlex has offered modern rental units. These units help fill important needs in rural areas.
BuildSpec
The BuildSpec program provides low-interest construction loans to South Dakota Home Builders Association members. This program, funded by a mortgage settlement, encourages builders to create affordable homes.
These homes have prices at or below the state’s limit for first-time homebuyers. By reducing financial risk, BuildSpec has drawn in new contractors. This has helped expand affordable housing options in both small and large communities.
A Community-Centered Approach
Both programs demonstrate South Dakota Housing’s commitment to innovative, community-driven housing solutions. Through modular flexibility and speculative builds, these initiatives create chances for families and professionals to succeed throughout the state.
About Mike Harsma
Mike Harsma is the Director of Single Family Development at South Dakota Housing and the Governors House Programs. He oversees programs like DakotaPlex and BuildSpec. These programs help with housing and development throughout the state. With a passion for innovation, Mike has played a key role in expanding housing options for underserved communities.