On June 10, 2026, the series “Unaffordable America” shines a light on economic inequality in the U.S. with a focus on rising housing challenges. Aliea Brown, who rented Unit 62 at Buck Island Manufactured Home Community in Mississippi in 2023, faced daunting living conditions. Her rental unit had an upside-down door, black mold infestations, and poorly sealed windows. Termites and ladybugs invaded the home, and a burst sewer pipe compounded the issue during cold weather, causing sewage to accumulate under her unit.
Brown, 41, and her partner Mason Obradovich, 39, had no funds to move out. They repeatedly sought repairs but received a letter from Homes of America, the corporate owner, stating that repair costs exceeded the unit’s value. Buck Island transitioned from a rental property to a community model where residents were expected to own their units. Brown was offered the dilapidated unit for $1,000 but declined, resulting in an eviction notice.
“I’m disabled and the company is well aware of this. Our credit’s not great. We’re stuck here.”
Many mobile home residents in the U.S., like Brown, face financial constraints limiting their housing options. Large corporations and investment firms purchasing mobile home parks have increased rents and fees, often reducing maintenance and shaking management relationships. John Calabrese, president of the Florida Federation of Manufactured Home Owners, describes some corporate owners as ruthless, focusing solely on revenue rather than resident welfare.
Homes of America, affiliated with Alden Global Capital, owns Buck Island and 169 other mobile home communities across 22 states. While their manager did not comment on the situation, the firm is known for aggressive business strategies. Jennifer Ludovice from Equity LifeStyle Properties asserts that their rent increases of 4.2% annually remain competitive.
Mobile homes make up 5.4% of U.S. housing, with costs rising but lower than traditional homes. New mobile homes averaged $131,200 in 2025, whereas single-family homes stood at $530,000.
Government regulation on corporate acquisition of single-family homes is growing but excludes mobile homes. Some states like Maine and Michigan have taken steps to protect mobile home residents, granting the right of first refusal or increasing park regulations.
Others face eviction threats due to property conditions like mold, as alleged by former employee Elvin Zapata in a lawsuit. Zapata, who managed properties in Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas, claims Homes of America concealed mold instead of professionally handling it.
Jim Hodgkins, living with his daughter at Greenmount Station in Illinois, highlights neglect and poor management following a purchase by Homes of America. Faced with property purchases or eviction, Hodgkins chose to buy his unit, fearing for his daughter’s wellbeing despite financial strain.
Residents such as Brown found little support. Housing Education and Economic Development (HEED) intervened, citing significant neglect and recommending relocation. But alternative housing options presented by Buck Island were equally poor.
The legal battle continues as HEED supports the couple against eviction, with Buck Island refusing payment for outstanding rent. Many residents are forced to leave, confronting the unaffordability and financial strain tightening around them.
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