Generating and Piloting New Housing Ideas
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26 Court StreetBoston, MA 02108
Development + Design Sprints
Family Housing
In March 2026, the Housing Innovation Lab hosted a Family Housing Development and Design Sprint with families, developers, and architects to seed new ideas for housing that meets the needs of families with school-aged children. Teams were equipped with the results of a citywide family housing survey, prototypical sites, and facilitation by city staff. Following the sprint, concepts were presented to City leadership to inform the City’s approach to meeting the housing needs of families.
Starter Homes
In November 2024, the Housing Innovation Lab hosted a Starter Home Concept and Design Sprint with local builders, developers, architects, and lenders to brainstorm ideas of how to create Boston’s starter home for middle income families. These ideas are informing the third phase of the Welcome Home, Boston initiative.
Pilot Programs
Assumable Mortgage Pilot Program
The Boston Home Center and Housing Innovation Lab are partnering with Roam Home, Inc. to help more Bostonians become homeowners through assuming mortgages with lower interest rates. Visit Roam’s website to see a map of properties for sale in Boston with assumable mortgages.
Research
AFFORDABLE HOMEOWNERSHIP Case Study REPORT
The Housing Innovation Lab conducted research and compiled a case study report in July 2023 detailing strategies that neighboring cities and other high-cost cities use to promote affordable homeownership. The City of Boston is taking information learned from this study to inform new ideas, policies, and best practices to help make Boston a more affordable place for all.
RENTING TO OWN
We’re partnering with developers, lenders, and service providers to explore new models of affordable homeownership that would provide tenants with the opportunity to build equity in their homes. Access the Request for Proposals to learn more.
Who's Involved:
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26 Court Street
Boston, MA 02108
