The City of Key West wants to congratulate Rafi Islam and his family on becoming first-time homebuyers at the Lofts of Bahama Village.

“I never thought I’d own a home here in Key West,” said Islam.

“Although Rafi and his family were not the first to close on their unit at the Lofts,” said Community Development Program Manager Tina Burns, “they were the first family to close with the use of the City’s At Home Grant Program funds. Without the At Home this would not have been a reality for a lot of people.”

The grant program is funded with tax funding drawn specifically from the neighborhood for community redevelopment.

“I thought it would be impossible to buy here,” said Islam. “Housing is crazy; rent is crazy.”

Originally from Bangladesh, Islam came to the United States in 2012. In 2022 he moved to Key West and rented through the Key West Housing Authority.

“I moved into Bahama Village and liked the neighborhood,” he said.

He notes that, when the lease for what was then referred to as the 3.2 acres came up for referendum, he voted yes. 

The Lofts of Bahama Village is a joint effort between the City, AH Monroe, and VestCor. The City of Key West deeded the 3.2 acres to VestCor, which partnered with AH Monroe as a sponsor. The land was originally transferred to City ownership from the federal government in the late 90s. The project, located at the Truman Waterfront Park, includes 98 rental and 28 homeownership affordable units.

Islam came to work for the City of Key West in 2024, first as a parking enforcement officer and now serving as administrative assistant for the parking department.

Islam, his wife, and 13-month-old child received the keys to their new home in mid-December.

“I am grateful to the City and Commission for making the dream of ownership a reality,” he said.

Islam notes that his new family is happy to have a two bedroom home instead of the single bedroom they were renting previously.

And they love the location.

“My little one goes to the park three or four times a day,” he said. “We’re looking to be settled for a long time.”