Warm Bodies

The first step in the turnaround of Madison Woods was identifying the troublemakers and eliminating them via eviction or in some cases, persistent harassment. The next step, still ongoing, was improving the physical appearance, including improving the quality of the housing stock. All of this was done in preparation for the last step, attracting higher quality residents to live here- an infusion of warm bodies.

Our screening process is rigorous. Applicants fill out our 2 page application form. We also look at the driver’s license, social security card, and pay stub. Besides a credit check on the applicant, every adult in the household undergoes a background check that includes bringing in a copy of their police report. Much of this is standard industry fare, but there are a couple of unique elements we’ve made an integral part of the admission process. Applicants must submit a letter of character reference from their boss, pastor, or some other respected member of the community. We’ve formed a Resident Selection Committee which consists of a few select current residents that are representative of the people we are trying to attract. In the final step, they interview the applicant and provide feedback on how well they believe the applicant would fit in our community. This process is useful on many fronts. We are new to this small, tight knit town, but the chances are good that committee members will be familiar with the person and their history. Secondly, it gets residents more involved and reinforces their commitment to living here and actively helping improve the community. Each committee member is an ambassador, preaching the gospel of Madison Woods to their coworkers, church members, family and friends. Sometimes the best defense is a good offense, and our selectivity provides an aura of exclusivity that helps counter the negative reputation Madison Woods used to have. We are a private, by invitation only residential community.

---