The Southfield Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative (SNRI) was created to strengthen neighborhoods, protect property values, and support responsible homeownership. The following information is provided to give residents a clear understanding of SNRI’s role, the legal framework around tax foreclosures, and the community benefits that have resulted.

Did SNRI foreclose on tax-delinquent properties?

No. Only the Oakland County Treasurer, working with the courts, has the legal authority to foreclose on tax-delinquent properties.

How was real estate acquired for the program?

When the County takes ownership of a property through tax foreclosure, it must first offer those properties to the local municipality under what is called the “first right of refusal.”

• If the City does not purchase them, the properties go to public auction.

• In Southfield’s case, the City—through SNRI—was able to acquire select properties for rehabilitation and return them to productive, responsible ownership.

What happens when property taxes are not paid?

• Property owners must be three years delinquent before foreclosure proceedings can begin.

• The County Treasurer manages this process under Michigan law, which includes a certificate of forfeiture, hearings, and a redemption period.

• The process takes multiple years and provides several opportunities for owners to pay their taxes, often with the help of assistance programs or payment plans.

• Only after a court judgment and redemption period do properties legally transfer to the County Treasurer.

Do other communities have similar programs?

Yes. Many Michigan communities operate programs like SNRI to prevent foreclosed properties from being purchased by speculators who do not invest in rehabilitation.

• Southfield’s SNRI stands out because it partners with Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County to ensure that every property is thoroughly renovated before resale.

• Buyers must agree to owner-occupancy deed restrictions, ensuring that rehabilitated homes are not converted into rentals.

How does SNRI differ from other housing renewal programs?

SNRI is unique because:

• Properties that can be salvaged are fully rehabilitated rather than left vacant or demolished.

• Funding for acquisition and renovation is provided by the Southfield Non-Profit Neighborhood Corporation (SNPNC), which has operated since 1973 and is also involved with McDonnell Towers, River Park Place, and Woodridge Apartments.

• City officials are required to serve on the SNPNC board for oversight, adding an additional layer of accountability.

• Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County manages all rehabilitation work, ensuring high-quality construction and safe, livable homes.

What happens to funds from rehabilitated home sales?

• Proceeds from home sales first cover the cost of acquisition and rehabilitation.

• Any excess funds are reinvested back into SNRI projects.

• The program is not designed to make a profit and has not yet broken even. Its purpose is neighborhood stability, not revenue generation.

Who benefits financially from SNRI?

• SNRI and SNPNC are governed by unpaid volunteer board members who live or work in Southfield.

• Neither organization employs staff; professional services such as construction management, legal, and accounting are contracted as needed.

• One manager receives a service-based payment tied directly to the sale of rehabilitated properties. No one receives profit-based compensation.

Has any homeowner lost a property through SNRI?

No. SNRI does not take homes from property owners.

• All foreclosures are managed solely by the Oakland County Treasurer and the courts under state law.

• Property owners receive multiple notices and opportunities over a period of years to resolve tax delinquencies before foreclosure is finalized.