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A state program to fight the blight of neglected properties is under scrutiny for failing to protect homeowners’ rights. The program, called “receivership,” allows the government to appoint a receiver to neglected properties to bring them up to code. After repairs are done, the properties are supposed to be returned to the property owner for the cost of repairs. 

However, the program is under scrutiny in light of growing concerns that it is enabling businesses to take over properties at bargain prices, . 

In fact, Vanessa Rosa, Class of 1929 Dr. Virginia Apgar Assistant Professor of Latina/o Studies, and her students revealed that more than half the homes in the program in Springfield are scooped up by receivers when the original owners are unable to repay repair costs that some say are inflated.

“These are people’s homes, and their whole lives are being destroyed as a result of this policy,” said Rosa. “People should know what’s happening, because it’s not right.”

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