Abandoned Home Program

Homes become abandoned for many reasons. Over time, without someone caring for them, these houses may pose safety hazards and make neighborhoods feel less inviting. The Abandoned Home Program – one of our most impactful – turns abandoned properties into livable homes, stabilizes neighborhoods, increases home ownership, and returns homes to the tax rolls.

Between 2008 and 2017, the Moline CDC rehabilitated 5 homes with volunteer labor from our board members and community partners. IHMVCU partnered with us to rehab a home on 26th Street with donations and employee volunteers.

Between 2018 and 2022, we sold abandoned homes to local contractors for rehabilitation.

5124 6th Avenue, Moline

In 2021, the Moline CDC took possession of the abandoned house at 5124 6th Avenue. Through a sealed bid process, we selected Southern Cross Properties to purchase the home and renovate it within nine months. It was an aggressive timeline, and new owner Dave Browning had a lot of hard work ahead of him.

“This house was a bit of a ‘racoon hotel’. It had become a major eyesore and a concern for other property owners in the neighborhood.” Moline CDC Secretary Bill Abel

Among many factors, the bid review committee considered how quickly each bid would return this house to productive use. They also appreciated that Southern Cross Properties committed to maintaining the historic character of the home’s exterior while modernizing the interior. 

“I think that the transformation of this house is a win for the City of Moline, the community, myself as a businessperson, and the fortunate family that will undoubtedly prosper in this home.” Southern Cross Properties owner Dave Browning