But you wouldn't actually have to do the work. The value of the land should increase because the work could be done. It really comes down to whether or not the 3-year provision of SB9 can be enforced, because then there is some value in the homeowner staying in their home while the work is done. Apparently, this is enforced by making the home owner sign an affidavit and then charging them with perjury if they lie. It will be interesting to see if that holds up in court.

That value increase is theoretical, not cash in the bank.

People sometimes need cash in the bank.

Sometimes theoretical is fine.

And since it takes awhile for a buyer to turn the theoretical value into cash (and risk, and work), the theoretical value is also going to be lower than you might think.

If the value increases the owner should be able to tap into that equity by doing a cash-out refinance.

Not if they don't have income.

They could do a reverse mortgage, but a lot of people are adverse to those for their own reasons.

Or just selling their home.