Here are the major points regarding the history of vacant and boarded-up homes, particularly
relevant to older cities like Baltimore:
 Post-Industrial Decline: Cities lost manufacturing jobs, leading to population shifts and
reduced demand for housing.
 Suburbanization: The movement to the suburbs post-WWII drew residents out of city
centers, leaving behind a surplus of housing.
 Racial Segregation & Discrimination: Practices like "redlining" and "blockbusting"
systematically disinvested in non-white neighborhoods, leading to concentrated vacancy
and decline.
 Economic Crises & Foreclosures: Housing market downturns (e.g., 2008) and
predatory lending led to widespread foreclosures, abandoning many homes.
 Property Deterioration & Neglect: Aging housing stock, absentee owners, and high
maintenance/lien costs result in rapid decay of vacant properties.
 Systemic Vacancy Cycle: Vacant homes lower property values, reduce tax revenue, and
create public safety hazards, further driving decline and perpetuating the problem.

Okay, here's the super-shortened version of the speculation on rebuilding Baltimore's vacant
communities:
Positive:
 Economic Boom: Higher property values, more tax revenue, jobs, new businesses, city
savings.
 Better Lives: Safer, healthier neighborhoods, community pride, stability, more
amenities.
 More Housing: Increased supply and homeownership opportunities.
Challenges (if not done right):
 Gentrification/Displacement: Current residents priced out, loss of community character.
 Affordability: High costs could make new homes too expensive.
 Infrastructure Strain: Overload on schools, transit.
Key to Success:
 Community-Led & Equitable: Focus on current residents' needs, prevent displacement.
 Holistic & Smart Funding: Address all needs, fund wisely.
up vacant homes
Vacant and boarded-up homes are a complex issue with deep historical roots, particularly in
older cities like Baltimore. Their presence often reflects a confluence of economic, demographic,
and social factors that have unfolded over many decades.