The tear-down was a project that's been years in the making. It was just one of many eyesores across Houston on a waiting list for demolition.
"This has been a long process," resident Becky Edmondson said. "The home has been in disrepair for years. It was stalled in court with a tax sale."
Neighbors have complained about the house in the 5800 block of Cartagena for years.
"I think the last five years it really deteriorated," resident Becky Cole said.
Now, as its framework is snapped and crushed, it's almost a celebration. Camera phones were out to document the day, and nearby homeowners were out to witness the demolition of a home many say was bringing down property values and allowing drinkers and critters to roam free inside.
"Rodents, it was open, it wasn't secured, the roof was caving in," Edmondson said. "It was just really a bad eyesore."
As in many cases, no taxpayer funds were used. The city of Houston persuaded the owner to pay for the demolition.
There is actually a backlog of homes waiting to be bulldozed in Houston.
"There is a city-wide waiting list," said Larry Green, Houston City Councilman for District K. "The Department of Neighborhoods manages the program, so there are hundreds that need to be torn down."
As the dust settles on the eyesore, neighbors are quick to point out that it's also sad in a way to know this was a place of memories for another family.
"Really happy but, you know, it was a sad day, too," Edmondson said. "That's somebody's home. A lifetime of memories."
A new home is already set to be constructed at the address for new homeowners to move in.
Find Erik on Facebook at ABC13ErikBarajas or on Twitter at @ErikBarajas13
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