South, SW Philly residents fear displacement with homes for sale

South, SW Philly residents fear displacement with homes up for sale

Drone Shot of Philadelphia Skyline from West Passyunk on Overcast Day in Fall — Source: halbergman / Getty

Thousands of residents are trying to figure out their next move, in fear they will be forced out of the Philadelphia homes in the near future.

Since the early 2000s, private developer James Levin has constructed a real estate empire in West and Southwest Philadelphia, building and rehabilitating hundreds of properties across those neighborhoods to offer as affordable rentals.

Levin is now auctioning off his collection of properties to the highest bidder, which could potentially displace the thousands of tenants living in his properties around the city.

At least 3,000 people live in Levin’s buildings. And many, if not all, could be forced to move if those units were to become market rate under new ownership.

“We have a year to figure this out and to stop 3,000 people from being displaced with no immediate solution,” said City Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, whose district is home to the majority of the properties.

Gauthier has already discussed the situation with Mayor Cherelle Parker’s administration, which is preparing to launch its signature housing plan. And Gauthier has a series of stakeholder meetings on her calendar next month — with the goal of trying to put forth a competitive bid for Levin’s properties.

Gauthier is determined to find a way to maintain the affordability of as many of these homes as possible, but understands that her efforts could be undermined if a more competitive price takes the price.

“He is giving the city an opportunity to be the one that comes to the table with a solution that keeps these affordable. I don’t think for Jim that means he’s not gonna sell to anybody else,” said Gauthier.’

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