KQED's Forum Mobile Homes Provide Affordable Housing, But Their Future Is at Risk
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Dec 9, 2025 In this insightful discussion, Bruce Stanton, a legal advocate for manufactured home residents, shares concerns about corporate takeovers of mobile home parks. Mariah Thompson, a senior litigator, highlights the lack of statewide rent control and the plight of low-income residents. Resident Mary Curry recounts her experiences living in a city-owned mobile home community, emphasizing the need for affordable housing. Randy Keller explores cooperative ownership as a promising solution. Together, they highlight the critical issues facing mobile home communities in California.
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Homeowners Without Land Are Financially Captive
- Mobile homeowners usually own the structure but not the land under it, making them 'captives' to space rent changes.
- This split ownership creates unique vulnerability because homes are immobile despite the name mobile home.
Investors Seek Cash Flow, Exploit Resident Captivity
- Corporate buyers increasingly acquire parks to boost cash flow and often seek ways to decontrol rent-regulated spaces.
- Courts recognize mobile home residents' captivity, giving owners leverage to push large rent increases or closures.
City-Owned Park Faces Sale Threats
- Mary Curry described Marin Valley Mobile Country Club as a 63-acre, city-owned park with 313 units and many long-term, low-income residents.
- The park runs programs like a park market and offers community amenities, but residents fear the city might sell the land.