Nearly two dozen homes are being built on a string of vacant lots in Tioga, marking the first Turn the Key project in the 8th Council District. Construction on the first set of homes began in April. The development on West Venango Street is expected to create 22 opportunities for first-time homebuyers. The homes are being built on city land that was transferred to Civetta Property Group. The cost of the properties is expected to start at about $280,000. Eligible buyers can receive up to $75,000 in mortgage buydown assistance, as well as up to $10,000 from Philly First Home, a grant program for first-time homebuyers. City officials said those subsidies can reduce monthly payments on a three-bedroom home to about $1,400, below the average rent for a comparable apartment. According to the Philadelphia Land Bank, 494 Turn the Key units have been completed, sold or placed under contract. Another 200 are under construction, and 1,118 more units have been approved for development.
Source: PlanPhilly; 6/2/2026