Vasquez introduces bill aimed at protecting mobile home residents from predatory investors

The proposal follows reports of rising rents and service cuts that advocates say push New Mexicans closer to homelessness

Organ Mountain News report

WASHINGTON - U.S. Rep. Gabe Vasquez introduced legislation this week designed to protect mobile home residents from predatory investors who purchase large numbers of properties.

The Keep Mobile Homes Affordable Act would require federal review of investors who buy more than 2,500 mobile homes or pads, with oversight aimed at preventing price gouging and ensuring access to utilities.

“One in six homes in New Mexico are mobile homes, and we are in the midst of a housing affordability crisis,” Vasquez said. “I refuse to sit by and let bad actors profit off our hard working community members. Buying massive numbers of homes and selling or renting them for predatory prices isn’t a smart investment strategy — it’s exploitation.”

Nicole Martinez, executive director of Mesilla Valley Community of Hope, said the measure could help vulnerable families.

“Manufactured housing is one of the last remaining pathways to stable, affordable housing for many low-income families in New Mexico,” Martinez said. “When corporate investors drive up rents or cut services, they push our neighbors closer to homelessness. We support this legislation because it puts vulnerable residents first and prioritizes housing as a human right.”

The proposal comes after residents across southern New Mexico reported rent hikes and months-long utility outages in mobile home communities.

Although they’re called “mobile,” these homes are a permanent source of shelter for many New Mexicans. Advocates argue they deserve protection from out-of-state investors more focused on profits than residents’ well-being.