One major problem with the HUD’s response to the urban housing crisis was the quality of the homes made available to working class and poor African Americans. While affordable housing was a government goal, it relied on private businesses that operated in the interest of profit. Additionally, the business of home appraisal was based on the assumption that property value decreased with proximity to African Americans. This racist ideology greatly limited the housing options of working class and poor African Americans. Homes with major issues were deemed inhabitable and sold. Unsuspecting buyers often did not have the disposable income to keep up with home repairs and mortgages. Mortgage lenders made a habit of profiting off houses that went into foreclosure quickly. The HUD was unable to effectively address the predatory practices of the private sector because of low staffing, over-extension, and anti-black racism within the organization.