Demolitions
Since 2016, Equity Homes has demolished more than 400 properties in the 24:1, a region of north St. Louis County comprised of 23 municipalities. Equity Homes has completed demolitions including single-family residences and commercial buildings.
In close collaboration with municipalities, law enforcement officials and other community leaders, Equity Homes assesses houses that pose challenges to the broader community. Equity Homes serves as a contractor hired by local municipalities to conduct demolitions.
Benefits of demolitions
Makes neighborhoods safer
Many houses in the area are uninhabitable due to disrepair and neglect. They pose safety risks and are prone to fires. Demolishing these properties makes these areas less dangerous.
Makes neighborhoods more attractive
Demolishing these properties results in more green space, which makes neighbors happier and gives children a safer place to play.
Attracts business
Run-down properties make neighborhoods less inviting, which makes it more difficult to convince new residents to move in or new developers to bring businesses to the area. Reducing the number of run-down buildings and increasing the amount of green space makes these areas more enticing to residents and businesses.
Contact us today to alert us to properties in the 24:1 area that you believe should be considered for demolition.
TRANSFORMING COMMUNITIES THROUGH DEMOLITION
In 2022, Equity Homes demolished its 400th derelict house in North St. Louis County. Jacqui Davis, Demolition Manager and Director of Housing Strategies, said demolition is a key part of neighborhood revitalization.
“Abandoned, dilapidated houses are more than just an eyesore,” Davis said. “They lower property values, provide a place for criminal activity, and are dangerous to kids and teens who might think it’s ‘fun’ to explore an abandoned house, not realizing that there are hazardous materials and structural dangers, such as the ceiling or floor collapsing on them.”
All demolitions are completed at almost no cost to the municipalities. Municipalities often sell the cleared properties back to the community to use as a green space or garden. On other occasions, they sell the lots to developers to build new, quality homes.
Are you ready to buy a home?
Equity Homes is not a traditional homebuilder. Through the generous support of donors, we are able to Build Equity for both individuals and their communities by providing financial support for the development and construction of affordable quality single-family homes.
