As homes in your neighborhood are foreclosed on strange things begin to happen. You find the people that lived there have left the premises in a hurry and may have left behind a lot of their belongings and a big mess too. The grass and weeds continue to grow and the bushes aren't getting trimmed. You might notice a foul smell emanating from the home. Pools can be left unattended, making it unsightly and a hazard to all. Windows get broken. Trash is left in the yard. Signs go up, showing it's a vacant home that's been foreclosed on. At times, the copper pipes are ripped out by thieves for resale and water is left to run ruining carpet, flooring, and mold begins to grow.

The community has a black cloud hanging over it. Neighbors wonder if they'll be next, thinking how easy it would be for them to be in that same situation too. If you feel you are at risk check out: www.hopenow.com or call 888-995-HOPE. At times the local government is not quick to take action either. Houses can be illegally entered by teens or homeless.

So, what can YOU do about it? Start a community effort with your neighbors to walk the neighborhood to look for problem properties.
When your block watch program (See: www.usaonwatch.org) is in place, notify the local police and city services so they can board up the windows. Take it in on your selves to serve and clean up what you can. Take turns cutting the grass. Pick up the trash. Form a homeowners association if you don't have one to get reimbursed for your work and put a lien on the property or get a court order for larger repairs. Check out www.vacantproperties.org on maintaining empty homes.

Do what you must to keep your neighborhood up to standards. The sun will come out and those clouds will soon part. Your neighborhood will be the stronger for your efforts!