Rare Detroit Land Bank Opportunity: Brick Two-Family Flat with Adjacent Lots and Full Redevelopment Potential

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Welcome to an exceptional redevelopment opportunity offered through the Detroit Land Bank Authority (DLBA)—a chance to transform a classic brick two-family flat and two adjacent lots into a valuable residential or mixed-use asset within the city’s revitalizing landscape. Located on Meldrum, this property holds significant potential for visionary buyers, developers, or community-minded investors who are prepared to undertake a full rehabilitation and craft a thoughtful, financially sound proposal that aligns with DLBA’s development standards.

This offering includes not only the brick multifamily building itself but also the two additional lots located at 4603 Meldrum and 4619 Meldrum. Together, these parcels create an expanded footprint ideal for creative development approaches—whether you envision a restored multi-family home, additional new construction, green space enhancements, community features, or integrated residential layouts. The presence of multiple lots dramatically enhances the possibilities, making this opportunity especially attractive to developers seeking flexibility and long-term investment potential.

A Classic Detroit Brick Two-Family Flat

The primary structure, a traditional two-family flat, reflects the architectural legacy that Detroit is known for. Characterized by its solid brick exterior, symmetrical design, and multi-level layout, the home offers a durable foundation for redevelopment. Two-family flats have long been a staple of Detroit neighborhoods, offering strong rental potential and versatile living arrangements.

However, prospective buyers should be fully aware that this building is in need of a complete rehabilitation. This includes interior reconstruction, mechanical updates, roof repairs or replacement, electrical and plumbing work, and modernization of both living units. The interior condition likely requires removing damaged materials, addressing possible structural concerns, and redesigning the layout to meet modern building codes and comfort standards.

While a total rehab is a significant undertaking, it also provides the rare advantage of designing the property from the inside out—selecting finishes, energy-efficient systems, layouts, and amenities that reflect modern urban living. Whether you aim to fully rehabilitate the structure as a traditional two-unit property or envision a creative mixed-use or multi-unit conversion, the blank-slate condition presents an open canvas for development innovation.

Includes Two Adjacent Lots: Expanded Development Potential

A major highlight of this offering is the inclusion of two adjacent lots at 4603 Meldrum and 4619 Meldrum. These additional parcels can be leveraged in numerous ways depending on the selected buyer’s development goals and proposal. Options include:

Building new construction residential units
Creating additional parking or garages
Expanding outdoor communal spaces
Adding gardens, patios, or green spaces
Integrating all three parcels into a cohesive multi-property development
Constructing accessory dwelling units (ADUs), if permitted

Having access to multiple parcels in a single offering is increasingly rare, especially in established neighborhoods. These lots allow the selected developer to maximize density, improve site functionality, and create a community-oriented project that elevates the surrounding area.

DLBA Proposal Requirements

As part of DLBA’s commitment to responsible redevelopment and neighborhood revitalization, all potential buyers must prepare and submit a proposal/pro forma to qualify for purchase consideration. This requirement ensures that the selected buyer has a clear, feasible, and well-funded plan for the property’s rehabilitation and long-term success.

The DLBA proposal guidelines, referenced in the listing, provide a detailed outline of what is required, including:

A full development plan
Project budget and financing strategy
Timeline for rehabilitation or new construction
Intended use of the property after renovation
Documentation of developer qualifications
Evidence of financial capacity to complete the project
Community development impact considerations

Submitting a proposal is not a formality; it is a vital part of the selection process. DLBA prioritizes buyers whose plans demonstrate seriousness, feasibility, neighborhood alignment, and long-term commitment.

Important Note About Tax Capture

Buyers must also be aware of the DLBA’s tax capture provision. The Detroit Land Bank Authority is entitled to capture certain property taxes for five tax years following the transfer of ownership. This tax capture is a standard part of DLBA property transactions but comes with important implications:

The tax capture may conflict with certain tax abatements, incentives, or lot combination benefits that are typically available to developers or homeowners.
Buyers who anticipate applying for abatements or assembling parcels must factor in the DLBA’s capture rights during financial planning.

In situations where the buyer seeks a waiver of the tax capture—often necessary to make certain development financing strategies viable—the DLBA will consider these requests. However:

DLBA may require a Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) or another form of compensation to approve any waiver.
The amount of this payment will be determined after reviewing the development pro forma, especially the impact of proposed tax abatements on the financing structure and long-term viability of the project.

This step ensures that the DLBA can continue supporting its mission while allowing some flexibility for financially sound and impactful development projects.

Development Planning and Financial Preparedness

Given the total rehabilitation required and the complexity of redevelopment, buyers must enter the process with comprehensive planning and adequate financial resources. A full rehab of a brick two-family property—especially one requiring structural, mechanical, and aesthetic overhaul—can require significant investment. Buyers should be prepared for:

Architectural design planning
Engineering assessments
Code compliance upgrades
HVAC, plumbing, and electrical replacement
Roof and foundation work
Window and framing restoration or replacement
Full interior renovations
Possible environmental remediation (if needed)

When combined with development of the two additional lots, the total project cost can vary widely depending on scope, materials, and intended end-use. This is why the required proposal and pro forma are essential—they help ensure that the selected buyer has a realistic and fundable plan.

A Chance to Shape the Future of a Detroit Neighborhood

More than just a purchase, this offering represents an opportunity to contribute to Detroit’s ongoing renaissance. Redeveloping a brick multi-family home and revitalizing adjacent lots can significantly impact the surrounding neighborhood—bringing new residents, strengthening housing stability, and enhancing urban vibrancy.

Detroit’s revitalization relies on projects like these: thoughtful reconstructions that honor the city’s architectural past while building toward its future. For buyers with a genuine passion for development, urban renewal, and community engagement, this listing offers an ideal opportunity to make a meaningful and lasting difference.

Final Thoughts

This Detroit Land Bank Authority offering—a brick two-family flat coupled with two adjacent lots—is a rare opportunity for developers, investors, and future owner-occupants who are ready to take on a major project and help shape a neighborhood’s growth. While the home requires a total rehabilitation and the DLBA tax capture provisions must be carefully considered during planning, the potential rewards—both financial and community-based—are substantial.

Buyers interested in pursuing this opportunity should thoroughly review the DLBA proposal guidelines, prepare a detailed and well-supported development plan, and ensure they have the financial capacity required to see the project through to completion.

With vision, commitment, and thoughtful planning, this cluster of properties can be transformed into a renewed and vibrant piece of Detroit’s residential landscape.