South 24th Street: 2 Families Become 1

PROJECT OVERVIEW

In August 2021, Richmond LAND was contacted by an Alliance of Californians for Community Empowerment (ACCE) organizer in Contra Costa to ask whether Richmond LAND would be interested in working with two families concerned about being forced out of their homes by a new landlord. After sitting down with the residents and hearing their situation, our suspicion that large private equity groups were purchasing local real estate in the wake of the pandemic was confirmed. A small landlord and owner-occupant on the Southside of Richmond, retired City of Richmond employee, had lost his property to foreclosure during the pandemic. Not only had he lost the property his mother built and that he maintained for years through providing below market rate rent, he was also being served an eviction notice by the new owner.

The residents had dozens of documents recounting their experience with people arriving at the home offering cash for keys, alleged property managers and real estate agents claiming to represent banks, and even a mysterious LLC buyer. The residents were shaken by the uncertainty of the situation. They had no idea what to expect from the new owner. They decided to partner with Richmond LAND to save the building on the condition that “we stay together!”

In February 2022, Richmond LAND succeeded in securing the financing to purchase the S. 24th St. building and stabilize the residents. They no longer have to fear eviction, and the property is permanently safe from real estate speculation. This effort also paved the way for critical advocacy in 2022 in support of AB 1837 (Bonta), also known as, the Homes in Community Hands Act, after learning that the former owner improperly used SB 1079 - foreclosure law that allows community land trusts and tenants living in foreclosed properties the right of first refusal at auctions- to purchase the triplex.

At South 24th Street, Richmond LAND demonstrated what community-based property stewardship looks like in practice. We brought the building into full compliance with the City of Richmond Rent Program regulations, property tax obligations, and local building code requirements. We also developed new budget and asset management tools and implemented the first rent increase since acquiring the building in 2022, helping to ensure the long-term sustainability of the property.

Notably, Richmond LAND completed its first major capital improvement project, a $130,000 deck replacement. This accomplishment was made possible through a partnership with local construction nonprofit, Rebuilding Together East Bay, and Levitch Associates. The project represented a critical life safety repair, as the deck is the only entry way to all three units. We celebrated this milestone with a ribbon-cutting event attended by more than a dozen funders and partners.

Beyond the physical improvements, Richmond LAND deepened its relationship with residents through monthly stewardship meetings, trust-building, and shared planning for the building’s future. South 24th Street now serves as a living example of how resident power and nonprofit stewardship can create safe, dignified, and affordable housing for the long term.

Richmond LAND Resident Testimonies:

“As we come to the end of another year, I myself want to thank you for everything you have done here at 24th street. God Bless Richmond LAND” Dale Riggins, South 24th Street Resident