Vacant And Problem Properties

"[This book provides an] introduction to the legal and policy issues associated with vacant and problem properties, how to take action to revitalize them, and how to frame effective and defensible local ordinances and regulations. It also addresses the benefits and challenges of creating land banks, the regulatory issues involved with dealing with brownfield properties, the importance of developing sound demolition strategies, and the value of greening or nondevelopment reuse strategies."--

This book presents an international comparison of legal responses to the issue of vacant housing in Japan, the USA, France and Germany. While vacant housing is a shared problem in these four countries, the origin and context of the problem, as well as the focus of legal responses, differ considerably. Presenting the outcomes of an international symposium, this book explores different legal approaches (private/public law, federal/national/municipal governments, demolition/expropriation/requisition/planning) taken in the respective jurisdictions. It is highly recommended to readers whose work involves practical issues concerning vacant housing and who are interested in theoretical aspects of property law, building law and administrative law. The book also includes a chapter exploring the implications of the “tragedy of the commons/anticommons” for contemporary land use issues in Japan such as landscape protection, area management and unclaimed land.

A compilation of research published by the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland on housing markets experiencing foreclosure and/or a large number of vacant properties which sheds light on a wide range of housing markets. It provides possible policy solutions applicable to both regional and national policy discussions.

During the continuing foreclosure crisis and economic downturn, increased numbers of vacant residential properties are becoming vandalised or dilapidated, attracting crime, and contributing to neighbourhood decline in many communities across the country. Even though homeowners whose properties are being foreclosed upon may continue to occupy their properties until after a foreclosure sale occurs, many leave their homes during the foreclosure process. In addition, properties for which a new entity has assumed ownership through foreclosure may be vacant until the property is resold. This book explores the concern over the costs that foreclosed and unattended vacant homes are creating for local communities and the strategies state and local governments are using to address unattended vacant property problems and the challenges those governments face.