Economic inequality in the U.S. is rising, and nowhere is this more evident than in mobile home communities. Aliea Brown faced severe living conditions after renting Unit 62 at Buck Island Manufactured Home Community in Mississippi in 2023. The issues included an upside-down door, black mold, unsealed windows, and pest invasions. A sewer pipe burst, increasing her water bill and leaving rancid wastewater under their home.
Despite repeated repair requests, Brown and her partner Mason Obradovich received a notice in February from Homes of America, stating that the repair costs exceeded the unit’s value. They were offered to buy their dilapidated home for $1,000, partially funded by their security deposit, as the park transitioned from rental to ownership. Unable to purchase, they were asked to leave by April 30, without anywhere to go due to poor credit and financial constraints.
About 22 million people live in such communities, an affordable option for those unable to purchase homes or higher-cost rentals. Recently, corporate entities like investment firms have acquired these properties. Residents interviewed in Florida, Illinois, Mississippi, and New Hampshire noted increases in rent and fees, declining maintenance and services, and strained relations with management. John Calabrese from Colony Cove Homeowners Association in Florida remarked on the differing treatment by new owners, noting a focus on revenues over resident welfare.
The Buck Island community, located near Memphis, is one of many owned by Homes of America, linked to Alden Global Capital. The manager declined to comment on Brown’s case, while Homes of America and Alden Global Capital did not respond to NBC News queries.
Mobile homes constitute 5.4% of U.S. housing. These communities often house seniors, disabled individuals, and families on limited incomes, mostly in Southern states. While affordable compared to single-family homes (average cost $131,200 vs. $530,000), mobile home owners face rising expenses—land rents, utilities, and fees.
In response, some legislative measures are underway. Maine enacted laws protecting residents, offering purchase rights when parks are for sale. The Michigan Senate passed a bill increasing regulation, currently under House review.
A lawsuit by former Homes of America manager Elvin Zapata cited concealed mold and targeting low-income renters for occupancy quotas, followed by evictions for missed payments. An “Abandoned Trailer” scheme allegedly sold rundown units to avoid repair burdens. Homes of America has until mid-June to address these allegations.
Residents like Jim Hodgkins in Illinois report neglected maintenance and increased costs following corporate ownership changes. Despite poor conditions and rising expenses, he purchased his unit to maintain stability for his daughter but fears future repair challenges.
Brown and Obradovich sought assistance from the Housing Education and Economic Development nonprofit and Legal Aid, yet faced eviction threats. The couple finds few viable housing alternatives, burdened by credit and financial limitations.