Relocating 107 residents from the Euclid Beach Mobile Home Park proved to be a complex and challenging undertaking. After over a year of extensive efforts, the final residents vacated the park late in 2024. The site now presents a stark contrast, with the majority of mobile homes abandoned and several in the process of demolition.
The Mobile home park, a 28.5-acre property on the Lake Erie shore, was in dire need of repairs and full of units built before 1980 when it faced closure in 2023. Western Reserve Land Conservancy (WRLC) acquired the park and initiated a relocation process for its residents. Despite initial resistance, WRLC provided generous relocation packages, averaging between $50,000 and $70,000 per resident, to assist them in finding suitable housing. Realty Reimagined, Cuyahoga Land Bank’s real estate agency with a mission to empower individuals and families through housing solutions, played a pivotal role in the relocation of the mobile home park’s residents. With a team of HUD-certified counselors, they navigated the complex challenges each resident faced, providing tailored support and guidance.
“The first step in our work was helping residents process the grief of leaving the community they loved,” said Sonya Edwards, Realty Reimagined’s compassionate leader. “From there, we walked alongside them to ensure they had options, support and ultimately, a place to call home.”
Many residents successfully transitioned to new homes, apartments, or senior living facilities. What could have been a precarious situation was nothing short of a success thanks to the expert team at Realty Reimagined. While the relocation process was challenging, the agency’s commitment to supporting the residents and their diverse needs ensured a smooth transition.
“This work was emotionally difficult because residents weren’t just leaving their homes; they were losing their close-knit community. Our team recognized that relocation wasn’t just about housing; it was about honoring their grief, preserving dignity and helping them find stability in their new chapter,” Edwards said.
The park’s future involves its transformation into green space, contributing to the redevelopment of Euclid Beach Park.
By leveraging their expertise in affordable housing and relocation assistance, Realty Reimagined helped residents secure housing that met their unique needs and budgets. Most who lived at the park were low-income, working-class or retirees on tight budgets. Finding affordable housing in Greater Cleveland, with its rising rents and increasing home prices, was a challenge — especially for that many people at once.
Realty Reimagined’s commitment to ensuring a smooth transition was evident in their dedication to finding suitable housing options, assisting with paperwork, and providing ongoing support throughout the process. The agency’s work on this project aligns perfectly with their mission to create thriving communities. By helping residents find stable and affordable housing, Realty Reimagined contributed to the overall success of the relocation effort and positively impacted the lives of many.