Why Focus on 2-4 Unit Housing Structures?
Two- to four-unit housing structures are prevalent in Biddeford. In fact, 2-4 unit structures account for:
- 1/3 of all Biddeford housing (approx. 3,100 properties)
- 48% of all downtown housing (or 2,870 properties)
- 9% of all Biddeford owner-occupied housing
- 20% of all downtown owner-occupied properties
Additionally, the city's 2-4 unit housing stock is aging. 89% of owner-occupied downtown housing was built prior to 1980, and the median age is 77 years. Aging buildings face more problems with maintenance, energy efficiency, electrical & plumbing failures, and general deterioration. They also may not meet modern building codes due to health and safety issues. Citywide, 1/5th of all multi-family housing is in "fair" or "poor" condition.