Residents' right to purchase a mobile or manufactured home community. (FE)
The bill's implementation will have significant implications for state housing laws, particularly those governing property sales and tenant rights. It ensures that tenants have a minimum of ninety days to make an offer to purchase the community after being notified, with an additional ninety days provided for completing the purchase if financing is secured. This statutory framework could lead to stronger tenant protections and greater community engagement in decision-making processes regarding their living environments. Consequently, local governments and housing authorities may also find themselves in a position to support resident-led initiatives to maintain community ownership.
Assembly Bill 1010 is designed to enhance the rights of residents living in mobile or manufactured home communities by providing them with a right of first refusal in the event of a sale or change in use of the community. The bill mandates that community owners must provide written notice to residents at least twelve months prior to any intent to close or change the use of the community, ensuring that tenants are well informed of potential changes. Moreover, if a community is listed for sale or an offer to purchase is received, residents must be notified within fourteen days. This legislative move aims to empower tenants and prevent sudden displacements, thereby fostering stability within these communities.
While AB1010 is generally viewed favorably by tenant advocacy groups, it has generated debate among property owners and developers who argue that the additional requirements could complicate real estate transactions and potentially deter investment in mobile home communities. Critics of the bill have raised concerns about how the definitions of good faith negotiation and the scope of required notices could lead to disputes between community owners and residents. Some community owners may feel that the bill imposes unwarranted restrictions on their ability to manage and sell their properties, particularly considering the exemptions for transactions involving family members and certain business transfers.