The Inclusivity Institute for Better Data’s Post

“Ms. Hoar emphasizes repeatedly that the first priorities for #housing are always #affordability and security. The best design in the world doesn’t help if apartments are too expensive or someone is constantly at risk of being evicted. But she says it’s possible to incorporate design that fosters social connection without stalling things or making them more expensive.” How to build a lot of housing that isn’t ugly. By Frances Bula The Globe and Mail

From small towns to big cities, abandoned buildings are everywhere. Whether they’re former factories whose production went overseas or religious spaces that are no longer active, unused structures are visible in a variety of locations. But as a housing shortage and desire for new development continues to reign supreme, the decision to repurpose these abandoned spaces into something new and innovative is growing. From housing and entertainment venues to luxury spaces, abandoned properties are entering a renaissance. Simply put, everything old is new again, and in many ways, it’s even better. https://lnkd.in/ejnmsdFa

Thank you for sharing, Simon Ha, AIA, LEED AP! This is a fantastic project produced and delivered by private market financing. The affordable housing system desperately needs more of this as we cannot depend solely on the LIHTC to meet our affordability crisis. Matthew Haas has a point that these are unicorn deals (today), but with some level of guidance, the private market could consistently deliver this type of product without the need for a front-end subsidy. Underwriting the time-limited nature of the master lease is challenging, though not entirely impossible. The main concern is how the agency and developer can compassionately handle a worst-case scenario. There is a possibility that the funding may run out or not get renewed, which would shift the entire risk to the private sector. If the worst-case scenario occurs, who is responsible for finding new tenants for the building? The private developer is likely responsible for this. Additionally, who will manage the mass relocations? This situation could drain the developer's operating reserves if they cannot handle the handoff effectively, leading to bankruptcy or insolvency if they are subject to legal action. In either case, less housing would be available. . . . #CREdiversity #commercialrealestate #realestate #empowerment #money #investing #finance #realestate #realestatefinance #development #realestatedevelopment #network #wealthbuilding #businesscapital #diversity #affordablehousing #affordablehomes #communitydevelopment

When asked about the key strengths of Citinova’s Albero development, the response from the urban community was clear: it’s all about location. Nestled in the heart of Greensborough, Albero has drawn attention, from first home buyers to investors, not just for its modern design but for the unique balance it offers—urban convenience intertwined with the charm of a tight-knit community. As part of a Victorian Government high-priority precinct, the suburb is expected to see a population increase of seven per cent by 2027, which has spurred demand for housing. Albero, being the only new apartment development in the suburb, stands to benefit from this growth, as well as from recent government-led infrastructure upgrades, such as the modernized Greensborough Station, which has improved local connectivity. Read more below. Author: Joel Robinson ------------ 📣 Was this update of interest to you?🔥 Join 17,000+ of your residential property development colleagues who follow Urban on LinkedIn. We regularly post free insights about: 💡  New project launches and updates 💡  What buyers are searching for on AU’s largest off-the-plan buyer platform 💡  Weekly interviews with industry leaders Follow Urban.com.au or connect with our CEO Mike Bird to keep your finger on the pulse of the apartment and townhouse market.

Loved playing a small part in this preservation and conversion of this beautiful building to residential! As we work to address the housing crisis, we I beleive that we need to see more examples like this. Transitioning unused buildings/spaces into much needed housing is key to increasing supply and revitalizing neighborhoods! #redevelopment #conversion #housing #housingcrisis #housingforall https://lnkd.in/grzxfJBa

50 years ago, "Heritage and New" came together in a range of my past major urban projects and various significant urban terrace/midrise projects that still stand today and probably will for the next 100 years or so. Instead of a 13-level cream brick tower block that came with the site planning approval on Brougham Place and would have destroyed the heritage value of adjoining mansions, I decided on a luxury terrace dwelling project. Brougham Place in North Adelaide now boasts 25 terrace dwellings that range from 155 sqm to 240 sqm, making it the largest Terrace City Housing project in over 100 years. These terraces were designed to fit between historic mansions and cottages in the rear street, with 30% set aside for affordability. The project has enjoyed above-average market capital growth, is tightly held, and has had few resales in the last 50 years. Check out more on heritage-sensitive projects like this below: #mediumdensity #midrise #HeritageNew

Great example of building affordable senior housing for displaced seniors incorporating Biophilic design concepts and employing mindful financial stategies. This design by kevin daly Architects [kdA] and funded by Hollywood Community Housing won the Design for Aging Review Award, 2023. A bit from the article.... "The team’s design emerged as six discrete buildings that reflect the scale of the single-family homes that surround it." "The team’s focus on establishing connections to the outdoors across multiple levels ensures residents can engage with their surroundings and neighbors without feeling crowded. Instead of relegating outdoor space to an unused corner of the roof, only accessible by elevator or interior stairs, the team has woven connections to the outdoors through all levels to reach users regardless of their age or mobility." “This is an original approach to housing, rethinking circulation patterns in apartment buildings and how a multi-unit building design can enhance community life. The team utilized funds judiciously and accomplished a lot with a very reasonable budget and clearly sought to rethink the scale of housing to create more of an experience. This building reads like a community.” ~Jury Comment https://lnkd.in/gUbCYimV

As of May 2023, the U.S. average rent reached $1,995, doubling in a decade, underscoring the urgent need for affordable housing. Despite challenges in financing and public perception, demand remains high. Key trends include sustainable Passive House design, market-rate amenities, Trauma-Informed Design, and flexible community spaces. Additionally, work-from-home spaces, resident services, and mixed-use developments are gaining traction. Innovative funding strategies and community engagement are crucial for overcoming obstacles and achieving successful affordable housing projects. #AffordableHousing #RealEstate #SustainableDesign #PassiveHouse #CommunityEngagement #HousingCrisis #TraumaInformedDesign #MarketRateAmenities #MixedUseDevelopment #WorkFromHome #UrbanDevelopment #ResidentServices

What is Middle Housing? I found this an interesting read on housing options catering to a different demographic, centrally located in walkable areas. In the Puget Sound region, the building of modern tri, 4 and 6 plexes has turned and where the footprint has to be small, we see more townhomes, and vertical growth as zoning allows. But also of particular interest, in my opinion, are the renovations of existing small apartment complexes. Many of these are owned not by institutional investors but by families, small groups, and have a different target altogether. While they may not possess the amenities that many newer complexes offer, they offer a middle of the road price point, and with renovations can help give a shot in the arm to owners. We'd love to discuss opportunities with you, no matter the size of your property. We have innovative ways to work within your budgets and create spaces that deliver return on your investment, whether the work is inside or out. Call me to discuss your options or explore more! 206-530-2180.