Deal a winning hand for affordable housing

In life, one has to play the hand he has been dealt. But being an avid poker player, I can tell you some hands are better than others, and it’s nice to draw an ace once in a while to win a pot or two.

So when I hear the plights of families who struggle to purchase their first home, I realize REALTORS® have an opportunity to make a difference. We can be that ace, or wild card, much needed spark on the path to a better life.

This past summer, I had the opportunity to serve on Gov. Jennifer Granholm’s Michigan Land Use Leadership Council. In that capacity I heard testimony from interested parties around the state, and was involved in several rounds of healthy, engaging and well-considered debate about land use, and, in many cases, how it affects affordable housing and community revitalization. The talk on the council was very positive and I, for one, am excited to get to work to turn some of the better ideas into realities.

It’s a perfect time to bring these initiatives to light. As a precursor to affordable housing month, which takes place in April, our state association is beginning new measures to spotlight areas around the state that need the help of our members. MAR will provide new opportunities and assistance for local associations and boards to pursue affordable housing solutions.

MAR’s emphasis on affordable housing will be evident throughout the year. There is no reason why any Michigan resident should not be allowed to live out the American dream, and it’s every REALTOR’S® responsibility to make the American dream a reality. It is a sad testimony to home rule that affordable housing opportunities for many are frustrated by exclusionary zoning practices. Higher-density and smart growth projects, if allowed the opportunity to occur, can provide exciting new products for the market and more choices than ever before for consumers.

I don’t have to tell you that every member of MAR benefits from these efforts. Granholm told us that “in the 21st century the old paradigm of business versus the environment is no longer valid. Today, both must flourish.” I agree and suggest that every REALTOR® should take that statement to heart. Getting involved with affordable housing, and land use initiatives, will help increase sales. Educating ourselves about smart growth alternatives, and to then educate citizens and elected officials is a huge challenge that MAR and its local associations need to partner in.

MAR’s affordable housing committee will gather this year to examine these issues and explore an expanded and aggressive role in this regard within MAR’s mission. There are already plans in the works to partner with other organizations to bring badly needed resources to families who need assistance in purchasing homes. MAR also has begun a campaign to educate the media, consumers and REALTORS® to the growing need for affordable housing.

We must make sure that local leaders embrace communities that allow a healthy balance of low-, medium- and high-density projects that will provide the kind of affordable housing and unique neighborhoods with designs and residential structure, that will attract homeowners.

Allowing for more housing choices, both in densities and design, will increase affordability. Higher densities mean less land per unit, reduced site preparation and lower per-unit infrastructure costs.

Let’s deal a winning hand to favor families that need help who in turn, will help rebuild the communities in which we work, play and live. With the help of REALTOR® volunteers, and the staff of local associations and boards, we can make a difference.