Germantown United CDC (GU) is hosting a series of workshops to provide information and assistance for local residents struggling with tangled property titles.
Resolving a tangled title can be a complex and costly process, often requiring legal assistance. To help residents navigate this challenge, GU will be hosting a series of in-person and online workshops starting in March 2024. These workshops will equip attendees with the knowledge and resources needed to address tangled titles. Registration is required. Interested participants can sign up here.
We encourage all Germantown residents impacted by tangled titles to participate in these valuable workshops. The sessions are also open to members of Germantown’s civic associations, Registered Community Organizations, Block Captains, and other neighborhood stakeholders. By coming together, we can work to resolve the widespread problem of tangled titles and ensure Germantown homes remain in the hands of the families and communities that have built this neighborhood.
What is a Tangled Title?
A tangled title occurs when someone lives in a house but cannot prove ownership because their name is not on the deed. This is a common situation when a home is passed down through generations, with children or grandchildren continuing to reside in a property still registered in the name of a deceased parent or grandparent. While a tangled title may not impact day-to-day living, it can create significant challenges, making it difficult or even impossible to resolve issues like foreclosure, utility shutoffs, or emergency home repairs. Addressing tangled titles is an important step in protecting homes for future generations within the community.
The Importance of Addressing Tangled Titles
Tangled titles can have severe consequences for families and neighborhoods. Without clear ownership, residents are unable to tap into their home’s value, sell the property, or qualify for home equity loans and other important resources. In most cases, they can’t get homeowner’s insurance or qualify for city programs aimed at helping low-income households. At the same time, they’re still obligated to pay their real estate taxes, maintain their properties, and fulfill the other responsibilities of homeownership. This instability can also lead to blight and displacement, reducing the availability of affordable housing.
Fortunately, the City of Philadelphia is investing nearly $8 million to help resolve tangled titles. Germantown residents who need legal counsel, fee waivers, or public assistance can connect with Germantown United CDC to get the help they need.
Workshop Series
The Germantown United CDC workshops will cover everything from understanding tangled titles to identifying legal and financial resources to help clear a home’s title. Participants will also learn about addressing liens, delinquent property taxes, and deed transfers.
Individuals with unclear property ownership will receive free legal assistance to determine their eligibility and create a plan of action. GU is partnering with several legal aid organizations working with the City to process applications and funding requests for eligible residents. These partners may include:
- Community Legal Services
- Philly VIP
- SeniorLAW Center
- Philadelphia Legal Assistance
- Affordable Housing Centers of Pennsylvania
By providing comprehensive support and connecting residents to critical resources, these workshops aim to empower Germantown homeowners to resolve their tangled titles successfully.
Schedule
Wednesdays
- March 20, 2024 (In-Person)
- April 3, 2024 (Online)
- April 17, 2024 (In-Person)
- May 1, 2024 (Online)
- May 15, 2024 (In-Person)
- May 29, 2024 (Online)
Registration is required. Sign up here >
Online workshops are offered through Zoom. The meeting access information will be sent separately via email following registration.
In-person workshops will take place at the Braid Mill Conference Room, located at 441 High St, Philadelphia, PA 19144. The main entrance is on High Street, between Morton Street and Magnolia Street.
Braid Mill is a new collaborative home for creatives, entrepreneurs, small businesses, and a center of community activity. The venue is accessible. The nearest bus route is the SEPTA XH. Secure bike and vehicle parking is available on-site. Instructions for entering the building will be provided. (Please note that the workshop location has been changed to accommodate more attendees. The event will no longer take place at GU’s office.)
Tangled Titles Disproportionately Impact Germantown
An analysis of census data shows that Germantown has some of the highest rates of tangled titles in the city. The neighborhoods with the most tangled titles tend to have lower household incomes and higher poverty levels.
Several factors contribute to the prevalence of tangled titles in these areas, including limited access to legal services and low property values. In some cases, outstanding liens can also make it difficult for residents to financially benefit from clearing the title.
Furthermore, there is a clear correlation between the incidence of tangled titles and the racial/ethnic makeup of a neighborhood. According to a groundbreaking 2021 report from the Pew Charitable Trusts, the census tracts with the highest rates of tangled titles are those with majority Black populations, like Germantown.
The map pictured above highlights the disproportionate impact of tangled titles on marginalized communities. Germantown is located in the Northwest section. Addressing this critical issue is essential for preserving homeownership and generational wealth in the neighborhood.
