Jay Kratz

Jay Kratz is a registered architect and has worked in some of the top design firms and corporate retail companies in the country. His resume is truly impressive, but it’s his current role in his local community that has unlocked a deeper purpose. Jay is the Director of Real Estate Development for Price Hill Will (PHW),  a nonprofit community development corporation serving the neighborhoods of East, West, and Lower Price Hill in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Community first

Most communities in our city have people who struggle to afford a home. One way Jay and PHW work to alleviate that problem is through a homesteading program that allows families to get into a home they otherwise cannot afford. The target home is purchased by (or sometimes donated to) PHW, who first brings it to up a level of safety and code compliance. Then the buyer moves in on a 5-year land contract to purchase the home, and is also expected to make cosmetic upgrades and improvements.

Does it work?

Jay has observed that this marriage of deserving homeowners and needy homes has been a blessing to everyone involved. Many of the homeowners have gone over and above simple cosmetic updates. For example, some have even gutted and upgraded their kitchens on their own, and it’s not unusual for buyers to pay the home off faster than 5 years.

Neighborhood pride

Jay is proud to be involved in such a worthwhile endeavor. “We are not just improving homes in our community; we are providing an opportunity for a better life for families to in themselves through programs like this. Opportunities like this can change the trajectory of a family’s life”.  It is clear that Price Hill’s leaders, organizations and volunteers are dedicated to the future of their community. Now that is a deeper purpose.

Just for fun!

Q: What is your current favorite restaurant in Cincinnati and what do you love there?
A: Price Hill Chili – I can see myself retired and being one of those guys who hang out there.

Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in your community?
A: There are so many people that work tirelessly for this community that I hesitate to pick one. These highly motivated individuals care so much that they volunteer their own time and energy for the betterment of Price Hill. It is humbling to be part of such energy.

Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be, and why?
A: The Caribbean – I am called to the water.

Q: What is your favorite movie OR what is the first movie you remember seeing in a theatre?
A: Imitation of Life / The Wizard of OZ

Q: What is something on your bucket list?
A: Becoming a grandfather

Q: What current / former local business makes you the most nostalgic about Cincinnati?
A: The Carew Tower

Q: With whom would you love to have lunch, past or present? 
A: Marion Spencer

Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about your community?
A: Our diversity / Our cultural fabric / Our proximity to the city

Q: What 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
A: Faith; Family; Friends

 

 

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