Al Ladd

Yes, this land is still available. Two buildable lots available for no money down. Possible loan or grant towards site development. Nice spot, 10 minute drive to Greeenfield MA, a very nice and indeed "green" town, and 30 minutes drive from Amherst or Northampton, MA, or Brattleboro , Vermont. Our land trust , Valley Community Land Trust, has been through turmoil these last couple years, but is in a better place now, and we're over 30 years old, so we've endured many changes in our internal composition, and in the world around us.

Yup, you've got it. The homeowner doesn't own the land, but does own the "improvements", home and buildings, and has the right to sell them if and when they leave, though at an appraised value that makes sure the land value is removed. Community Land Trusts started out with a rural/land reform mission, but have gravitated more towards urban missions addressing affordable housing. Ours was started in the late 70's, and is sort of unusual now. Check out VCLT.org for more info. We believe the proper relationship for people to land is stewards, not owners. We're not really an intentional community, as our households are separate and conventional, but having the institutional connection with one's land trust neighbors (the piece I live on has 5 households) is a big step up from normal American alienated neighborhood.

Great opportunity for owner/builder to build your own home on 99 year leased land owned by the Valley Community Land Trust, in Colrain MA. No payment for the land, and about $100/month lease fee. Own your own home and build equity. For more info see:http://vclt.org/VanNuys . Beautiful location on quiet road, 10 minute drive from Greenfield, MA . You'll have 2 other VCLT homeowner lessee neighbors, one already living in old farmhouse, all sharing 30+ acres, with each exclusively leasing 1.5-2.5 acres beneath their homes.2 lots available- you and your friend can help each other build your own homes and live happily ever after!