American Housing Justice Act
From Renter to Owner: You've Earned It
The Big Idea
If you've been paying rent on time for years, you've proven you can handle a mortgage. This bill turns your rent payments into a pathway to homeownership—not a handout, but recognition of what you've earned.
😟 The Problem
History of Exclusion
Marin City's Black families were shut out of homeownership programs after WWII. The Canal's Latino families face the same barriers today.
Rent Goes Nowhere
Families pay rent for decades but build zero equity. Landlords get rich while renters stay stuck.
Displacement Crisis
Speculators buy up housing and push out families who've lived there for generations.
✅ Our Solution: Earned Equity
This isn't a giveaway. It's recognition that responsible renters have earned their shot at homeownership.
Rent Becomes Equity
15-30% of your on-time rent payments count toward owning your home. After 15 years, you can own it outright!
Community Land Trusts
Homes stay affordable for 99 years—not just for you, but for your kids and grandkids too.
No Displacement
Current tenants can't be kicked out. If repairs are needed, you get to come back to your home.
Willing Sellers Only
No eminent domain—ever. Only landlords who want to sell can participate.
🔧 How It Works
Pay Rent On Time
Keep making your rent payments like you already do—on time, every month.
Earn Credits
15-30% of each payment becomes "earned equity"—credits toward owning your home.
Take Classes
Complete financial literacy and homeownership courses (free!) to prepare for ownership.
Become a Homeowner
When your credits reach 100%, the home is yours—with affordable resale restrictions to help the next family.
📍 Starting Right Here at Home
Two communities with different histories, same dream: homeownership for families who've earned it.
Marin City
Primary PilotA historically Black shipyard community from WWII—families who built the ships that won the war, then were shut out of the American Dream.
Priority Goals:
- Prevent displacement
- Create community land trust
- Preserve cultural heritage
- Build generational wealth
The Canal
Secondary PilotSan Rafael's vibrant Latino immigrant community—hardworking families facing overcrowding and displacement in one of America's most expensive areas.
Priority Goals:
- Prevent family displacement
- Address overcrowding
- Multilingual outreach
- Flood resilience
📝 Your Responsibilities
This program rewards people who prove they're ready for homeownership:
Pay rent on time (within 5 days of due date)
Maintain steady employment or income
Keep your home clean and safe
Follow your lease terms
Complete homeownership classes
Be a good neighbor
Life happens: If you lose your job or get sick, your credits are frozen—not lost. The program works with you through tough times.
🛡️ Built-In Protections
No Eminent Domain
Government can't force anyone to sell. Only willing sellers, only fair market value.
Can't Be Displaced
Current tenants in good standing keep their homes. Period.
Right of Return
If renovations are needed, you get to come back to your home at affordable rent.
You Can Sue
If your rights are violated, you can take them to court and get damages + attorney fees.
Privacy Protected
Immigration status never shared with enforcement. 72-hour notice before any inspection.
Your Language
All materials and help available in Spanish, English, and other languages as needed.
📊 How We Measure Success
This pilot must prove it works before it can expand. Specific targets include:
Rent payment compliance
Displacement prevented
Convert to ownership
Community satisfaction
Independent review by the Government Accountability Office at Years 5 and 7. No expansion unless these targets are met!
💵 The Numbers
Phase I funding (Years 1-5)
Maximum units in pilot
Years of guaranteed affordability
Required local matching funds
📅 The 10-Year Plan
Years 1-5
Pilot in Marin City & The Canal
Up to 300 unitsYears 5-7
Comprehensive evaluation
No new unitsYears 7-10
Expansion IF successful
Up to 5,000 units nationwide🙋 Who Can Participate?
Requirements:
- Household income at or below 80% of area median (priority for 50% and below)
- Current tenant in good standing, OR
- On waiting list for covered property
- Willing to complete homeownership prep courses
Section 8 Voucher Holders:
You can apply your voucher toward rent-to-ownership! When you complete the program, your voucher goes to another family in need.
"You've been paying rent on time for years. You've earned your shot at homeownership. This bill makes that happen."
— Gregory BurgessReady for Housing Justice?
This is what "Show Your Work" looks like—real legislation you can read today.