New model home opens doors to affordable living in Tuscarawas County

Aribbon cutting and open house marked the launch of a new model home organizers hope will be a catalyst for improving access to affordable housing in Tuscarawas County and beyond. The model, located in New Philadelphia, is the result of two years of work by the New Philadelphia Housing Plan organization.

Matt and Audra Karam, who founded the group, were inspired by the financial challenges their own children faced in trying to purchase a home. The Karams brought together community leaders, contractors and volunteers to address the issue with a practical solution.

“Our goal is to put this home wherever the clients need it,” Matt Karam said. “They find the lot with a real estate agent. Then we build this home on their lot, where they want to be.”

The one-story model will serve as a showcase over the next three years. None of the contractors involved will be paid until the home is sold, and interest in the project is already growing, with three showings scheduled before the ribbon cutting. Once permits are secured, construction can be completed in just three months.

“It takes 30 days for permits and other stuff, and it takes 90 days for us to build it. They will be in that home in 120 days,” Karam said.

Future homes will be built by the same contractors who completed the model, ensuring consistent quality. The design prioritizes affordability without sacrificing quality or comfort. The Karams selected materials that are energy-efficient and low-maintenance including extra insulation, upgraded windows and radiant floor heating.

“We wanted to use the best materials up front, extra insulation, the better windows, the better doors and the radiant floor heating that would save them money every month,” Karam said.

The home has two-by-six walls instead of the standard two-by-fours, allowing for more insulation. ProVia double-hung windows with low-E glass and argon gas to improve energy efficiency and comfort. Radiant floor heating helps reduce energy bills and creates a dust-free environment.

The design also aims to be hypoallergenic and accessible. The model lacks a basement to avoid moisture issues, and features antimicrobial paint and luxury vinyl flooring. There are no carpets to trap allergens, and the home can be built with no steps, making it ideal for both first-time buyers and seniors.

Inside, the home includes solid wood cabinets with soft-close doors and Energy Star-rated appliances, combining quality with cost savings. The focus is not just on affordability at purchase, but also on ensuring residents can comfortably maintain their homes long-term.

The organization has partnered with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to help qualifying buyers access rural housing loans. A credit score of 640 or higher is required. Through government subsidies, even families with modest incomes can afford a home.

“They made $39,000 a year in total household income. They qualified for a $280,000 home. Their monthly payment is only $850 a month because the government subsidy makes up the difference,” Karam said.

Call 330-495-0455 or visit www.NewPhiladelphiaHousingPlan.com.