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This research is designed to examine the potential mismatch between neighborhood stabilization plans and resources with the unique needs of smaller post-industrial cities in the United States. Given the distinct demographic, economic and physical characteristics of smaller, post-industrial cities, I rely on Lawrence, MA as a case study to examine housing tenure and homeownership strategies-particularly within the current economic climate and foreclosure crisis. The primary goal of this thesis is to combine first-hand observations with quantitative analysis in order to address the question: is increasing homeownership an appropriate and feasible goal for cities with high concentrations of poverty and a prevalence of multi-family housing stock? If not, what alternative housing strategies and policy approaches are needed in order to stabilize distressed neighborhoods and improve quality of living? Consistent with Lawrence's growing challenge with foreclosures and research on low