NOVATO, CA — An ambitious housing development planned for Novato could eventually provide 80 affordable homes for first-time buyers, with every residence reserved for low- or moderate-income households, officials claimed.
The Habitat for Humanity Greater San Francisco development is planned for a 13.6-acre property at 8161 Redwood Blvd. in Novato. The organization described it as the largest 100 percent affordable homeownership development in California.
Plans call for 60 homes for low-income households and 20 for moderate-income households, along with 2,154 square feet of commercial space, according to the city.
Unlike many affordable housing developments, the homes will be sold rather than rented. Under Habitat's homeownership program, total housing payments — including mortgage payments, taxes, insurance, utilities and homeowners association fees — will be capped at 30 percent of household income, according to the city.
Novato has committed $2 million toward the development. The City Council allocated $1 million in 2023 and unanimously approved another $1 million from its Affordable Housing Fund in March 2025 to help cover reductions and waivers of city permitting fees.
"Every day we see how stable, affordable homeownership changes lives, creating financial security, improving health outcomes and strengthening communities," said Maureen Sedonaen, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Greater San Francisco.
City leaders pointed to the project as part of Novato's broader effort to increase its affordable housing supply.
"This project is a significant step forward in our ongoing efforts to expand affordable housing opportunities for local families," said council member Tim O'Connor when the additional city funding was approved in March 2025.
Once completed, the 80 homes will count toward Novato's state-mandated Regional Housing Needs Allocation goals.
The project was in the permitting phase when the city approved the additional funding in March 2025, with Habitat working to finalize approvals and secure additional financing needed to begin construction.
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
Novato Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.