Information for Applicants

If you’re thinking about submitting a proposal for restoration of the House of Tomorrow, you’ll want answers to these frequently asked questions:

What’s the term of the sub-lease?

A 50-year sub-lease will be executed between Indiana Landmarks and the successful applicant. The National Park Service (NPS) will continue to own House of Tomorrow throughout the lease.

What use is allowed for the property?

Only single-family residential use is allowed.

Can the property be rented?

No short- or long-term rental is allowed, including Airbnb or any similar type of home-sharing or rental.

Can a proposal be submitted by partnership, say two unrelated people or couples?

Yes, so long as the submitting parties will be the primary users. In such cases, additional information will be required.

How much is the project expected to cost?

Based on the existing plans, rehab of the property is expected to cost $2.5 – $3 million.

Are there grants or tax credits available to help fund the restoration?

There are no grants, tax credits, or tax deductions available for the project.

Can a mortgage be placed on the property?

No liens or mortgages may be placed on the property.

Can the sub-lease be transferred?

Yes, under certain situations. In the event of the death(s) of the lessee, the lease may transfer as part of the estate. The NPS and Indiana Landmarks must review and approve the proposed heir(s) for financial capacity to maintain the property and verify commitment to the lease requirements.

If the lessee cannot enjoy the full term of the agreement for an unexpected reason (e.g. they are transferred out of the country for work for a protracted period of time), then the remaining term of the lease can be transferred for compensation to assist recovery of rehabilitation investment. The NPS and Indiana Landmarks must approve the new proposed lessee in advance. The new lessee will then enter into a new lease for the time remaining on the original 50-year agreement.

Does the home have to be open to the public all the time?

No. However, the home must be open to the general public at least once a year (an annual open house is coordinated by Indiana Landmarks each September).

What work must be approved and by whom?

The initial rehabilitation plans, and any subsequent changes of plans for the interior, exterior or grounds, must be approved by Indiana Landmarks, the NPS and the Indiana Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology (DHPA). All plans must follow the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation (see www.nps.gov).

Are there other project submission requirements?

A set of as-built drawings will need to be submitted at the end of the project to the NPS. Documentation through photographs and video of the construction project for use in future publications, media and lectures by Indiana Landmarks, NPS, and the National Trust is required, along with rights to use.

What other NPS regulations or requirements are there?

An annual inspection by NPS and Indiana Landmarks staff is carried out each September at the time of the annual open house. The lessee submits an annual report to document investments in the property, plans for the next year, and any expected issues.