vacant properties

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "vacant properties" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to real estate that is unoccupied or not currently being used for any purpose. Example: "The city is looking to revitalize the area by converting vacant properties into affordable housing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Vacant properties contribute to crime.

The New York Times

Greater Manchester recorded 34,724 vacant properties.

The Guardian

At least 120 bedrooms are empty in the vacant properties.

The Guardian

In London's 33 boroughs, there are 56,715 vacant properties.

The Guardian

And there were so many other vacant properties out there.

The New York Times - Magazine

(Some of the vacant properties, however, have already been rented, Mr. DiBart said).

The New York Times

Some vacant properties and at least one auto repair shop are among them.

The New York Times

Vacant properties also seem to be staying on the market longer, brokers say.

The New York Times

Once anomalies, such as vacant properties, have been taken into account, that number will fall.

The Guardian

Palmer says "proper" squatters take possession of long-term vacant properties.

The Guardian

He was training several other advocacy groups how to identify and occupy vacant properties.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the impact of "vacant properties" on a community, be specific about the type of property (residential, commercial) and the reasons for vacancy (foreclosure, abandonment) to provide a clearer picture.

Common error

Avoid using "vacant properties" when referring to empty plots of land. "Vacant properties" typically imply structures exist on the land, while "vacant land" refers to land without buildings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "vacant properties" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Examples in Ludwig show it describing real estate that is unoccupied.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "vacant properties" refers to unoccupied or unused real estate and is deemed grammatically correct and frequently used, according to Ludwig. It appears most often in news and media, science, and general discussions, indicating a neutral register. When using this phrase, be mindful of the distinction between "vacant properties" (which imply existing structures) and "vacant land" (empty plots). Addressing the issue of "vacant properties" often involves community efforts and strategic urban planning. This is consistent with Ludwig's examples, which highlight the phrase's prevalence in discussions related to urban development and real estate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

empty buildings

Focuses on the structure being empty, rather than its status as property.

abandoned houses

Emphasizes the neglect and lack of care associated with the properties.

unoccupied dwellings

A more formal way of describing properties that are not currently lived in.

derelict properties

Highlights the state of disrepair and neglect of the properties.

empty real estate

Uses a broader term 'real estate' to encompass different types of properties.

unused buildings

Focuses on the lack of current use of the building.

foreclosed homes

Specifies that the properties are vacant due to foreclosure.

distressed properties

Highlights the financial difficulties associated with the properties.

idle properties

Emphasizes the lack of activity or use of the properties.

untenanted properties

Indicates that the properties lack tenants or occupants.

FAQs

What are some synonyms for "vacant properties"?

Alternatives include "empty buildings", "abandoned houses", or "unoccupied dwellings", each carrying slightly different connotations.

How do "vacant properties" affect a neighborhood?

"Vacant properties" can contribute to crime, reduce property values, and create a sense of neglect. Addressing this issue often requires community involvement and strategic urban planning.

What is the difference between "vacant properties" and foreclosed homes?

Foreclosed homes are a subset of "vacant properties" specifically referring to homes that have been taken over by a lender due to mortgage default. Not all "vacant properties" are foreclosed, as some may be abandoned or simply unoccupied.

How can a city address the issue of "vacant properties"?

Cities can implement land bank programs, offer incentives for redevelopment, or enforce stricter maintenance requirements to address the issue of "vacant properties".