The defining feature of resettlement housing is that everyone knows each other's backgrounds inside out. Most of the time, it's extremely rare to see a stranger within the community, unless they're new homeowners who have just moved in.
Everyone is well aware of Arthur's circumstances—there's no way he would spend money to buy a house for Ruth.
It's true that both of these demolition compensation properties are under Ruth's name, but as a housewife, her own financial situation is stretched to the limit. Where would she possibly get the money to buy things like a car or a house?
People are even clearer about Old man Bard's situation. After his wife passed away, he became an absolute diamond bachelor, attracting the envy of widows all around. He was allocated several storefronts from the demolition, but held onto that particular apartment, hoping his son would return after finishing his studies so they could enjoy family happiness together.
