NEWARK — Forget the chocolates or red roses, Newark 's government has another option for your sweetheart on Valentine's Day.

The city is selling 100 lots at $1,000 each to any couple (of any sexual orientation) who is willing to build and live in a home on the land, according to the city's website.

"Calling all lovebirds: Bring your sweetheart to Newark on (Feb. 14) and start calling Newark home," Mayor Ras Baraka wrote in an email to constituents.

The special is this Saturday from 9 a.m. until noon in City Hall.

The lots, which are mostly in the South, Central and West Wards, will be sold at a first-come, first-serve basis, according to the city.

Couples are limited to buying one lot and will be expected to make a $500 down payment and an additional $500 at closing. Couples must also be willing to live in the property for 5 years.

Buyers will be responsible for all closing costs, and must submit a City Planning Board approved site plan to close on the property, according to the city. Couples must also have proof that they can cover the cost of construction on the property, and must complete that construction within 18 months of closing on the land.

"We are observing Valentine's Day with creativity and a commitment to Newark's couples, by offering them opportunities to achieve their American dream of home ownership," Baraka said in a statement about the sale. "At the same time, we are turning vacant lots into homes that strengthen our communities, replacing blight with development."

The holiday sale is one of several attempts the city has made to get rid of its excess land over the last few months. Last year, the city held several auctions of both abandoned homes and vacant lots (see photos above).

And just last week, the city announced a program to give "forgiveable loans" to teachers and city employees if they buy homes in troubled neighborhoods.

For more information on the sale click here.

View Valentine's Day lots for sale in a full screen map

Naomi Nix may be reached at nnix@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @nsnix87. Find NJ.com on Facebook.