128 Homes in Foreclosure, But You Might not Know It

The city has 128 homes in foreclosure right now -- and the fact that officials know the exact number could actually help Strongsville's bond rating.

When Mayor Tom Perciak met with officials from Moody's, the credit rating firm, he knew they would ask about what the city was doing to maintain property values.

He was ready for them.

He handed over a report that showed all 128 homes in foreclosure in May, as well as a detailed description of the property and any upkeep violations.

"We showed that everyone one of these houses was inspected," Perciak said. "They were very impressed that we're on top of every home in our community."

Building Commissioner Tony Biondillo said inspectors check every foreclosed home every three months, and make special weekly visits in the summer to make sure the grass is being mowed.

If not, the city does it and bills the owner.

"We physically inspect every one of these properties quarterly," Biondillo said.

The May report shows the vast majority of homes in foreclosure are still occupied, and most have no maintenance violations.

In May 2010, there were 134 homes in foreclosure.