CLINTON, Tenn. (WATE) — Yet another mom-and-pop mobile home park has been purchased by corporate owners who immediately raised the rent. For many of the residents, their monthly rent will more than double, taking a big chunk out of their fixed incomes.
What’s happening across Tennessee, and in other states, is that corporations and private equity firms are buying “mom-and-pop” mobile home parks. Renters affected by the recent ownership change in Anderson County are worried.
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Nearly 30 families live in the newly named Smoky Palms North mobile home park in Clinton. The former long-time owner of the park sold the property less than a month ago. The park is well-maintained, with many people here owning their homes and renting their lots. On April 2, a notice from the new owner was taped to the front door of residents’ homes. The park has been sold, and lot rents are going up.
“They’re raising my rent from $275 to $650,” said Lillian Goins. “Yes. I’m retired. I work two days part-time to make ends meet. I think this is absolutely ridiculous.”
Goins has lived in the park for 18 years. She owns her home and doesn’t want to move…