Yochim concerned about zombie properties in the county

The problem of zombie properties across the state and in parts of Chautauqua County has been raised by a candidate running for the 150th Assembly seat.  Democrat Barrie Yochim says he backs legislation being pushed by State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman that is called the Abandoned Property Neighborhood Relief Act.  It would require banks to notify homeowners who've fallen behind in mortgage payments that they are still allowed to live in the home during the foreclosure process and be given any opportunity possible to catch up on mortgage payments.  It would also require the bank to take over the upkeep and maintenance of the property if the homeowner abandons the property before the foreclosure is completed.

Yochim-Zombie properties becoming problem

Yochim's opponent, incumbent Republican Andy Goodell opposes the Abandoned Property Neighborhood Relief Act since it could result in higher interest rates and liability costs for all property owners. When the legislation was announced announced earlier this year, there were over 15,000 properties across the state involved in zombie foreclosures.   

Photo by the Observer