Lot rent is a concern for many individuals living in mobile home communities around the world. The cost of lot rent has been steadily increasing, putting a significant financial burden on residents and threatening their ability to afford housing. 

Our story is like so many others. Our community, Southern Hills, located in Stewartville, Minnesota was bought out by Havenpark Communities in July of 2024. Within one month of owning our community, Havenpark Communities raised lot rent for new tenants from $514.00 to $895.00, a 74% increase. While the residents who were living here before the sale of our community are considered grandfathered in, we know that our lot rent will be increasing dramatically to eventually meet the amount that new tenants are being asked to pay.

Many of our residents here in Southern Hills are low to middle class. Our community consists of single parent families, senior citizens, disabled, young adults who are just starting their adventure of being homeowners. Many of us are struggling already with the high cost of living. While we understand a lot rent increase is inevitable, one such as a 74% increase would put a significant financial burden on so many of us. On top of paying our lot rent, some of us have mortgages along with electric, gas, phone, internet and other bills.

The impact of rising lot rent is far beyond the financial burden it would put on the residents. It could leave families having to choose between feeding their family, or providing a roof over their head. Our community consists of over 400 families. A lot rent increase could put strain on local businesses as families would have less money to support these businesses. It puts more and more families at risk for being homeless, and would contribute to the homeless problem that so many cities are already struggling to deal with. More families would have to rely on government assistance. Our school district will be affected because children will have to move to other counties in hopes to find homes. A higher lot rent will also make selling our homes a lot harder, leaving people who cannot afford the lot rent to have to abandon their homes. 

We, the residents of Southern Hills are calling for rent control measures, fair and affordable lot rent pricing and improved regulations to safeguard the rights of mobile home owners. By exploring and supporting this petition, you can help address the systemic issues faced by mobile home community residents and advocate for fair and affordable housing options for all. Make a difference by standing up for the rights of individuals affected by the rising costs of lot rent.