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une 2, 2025 / 6:39 PM EDT

    Real estate speculators accused of exploiting struggling towns like Jeannette.

    Jeannette was once known as the glassmaking capital of the world, but after its last plant closed in the early 80s, the city faced hard times. Today, it's trying to revitalize its downtown area, but out-of-state real estate speculators are hindering progress. "We want every storefront on the main avenue to be thriving with businesses," said City Manager Ethan Keedy. "It's frustrating that we have out-of-state LLCs buying and selling these properties sight unseen, often without any intention of renovating or restoring them."

    These speculators buy derelict properties in hopes of making a quick profit, leaving buildings vacant for years. According to Brian Lawrence of the Westmoreland County Redevelopment Authority, "Every single one of these properties has an impact on its neighbors and the community." He estimates that hundreds of such properties are owned by out-of-state LLCs, perpetuating the problem of blighted, abandoned buildings.

    For example, a vacant storefront in Jeannette was bought by a California LLC for $3,100 in 2022 and then sold to an LLC in Wyoming for $20,000 just months later. Another house, overgrown with weeds and bushes, has been left in disrepair since being purchased by two partners from San Diego for $1,000 in 2020.

    A vacant church has also fallen into disrepair after being bought by a Maryland investor for $9,576 last year. The city is unable to contact the owners about unpaid taxes and code violations. While it's unclear why speculators are targeting struggling towns like Jeannette, some believe it may be due to tax advantages or low investment costs with potential for high returns.

    "It's predatory," said Lawrence. "These communities already face disadvantages, so it's especially hurtful that this game is played here."