Research & Tools
Research: Topical Research
Homes for Working Families undertakes topical research to demonstrate the social and economic value of affordable homes to families and communities. This research also seeks to identify connections between access to affordable homes and other critical issues. It builds the case for more homes within reach of working families. It also assess the circumstances surrounding the lack of affordable homes in local communities and at the state level.
New June Research Update: Analyzing Affordability in Metropolitan Housing Markets
Analyzing Affordability in Metropolitan Housing Markets : An Examination of Affordability for Middle-Income Households
Homes for Working Families has released the June 2008 update of Analyzing Affordability in Metropolitan Housing Markets: An Examination of Affordability for Middle-Income Households. The study was conducted by Moody's Economy.com and is a follow-up to the January 2008 release.
The June 2008 release continues to examine the affordability of homes most likely purchased by middle-income households in 40 metro areas. In an attempt to gain a greater understanding of the volatile housing market, this report expands upon the previous release by adding a more in-depth look at the impact of foreclosures, the availability of credit, and rising household costs have had on homeownership for middle-income families.
Inclusionary Zoning: A Framework for Assessing the Advantages and Disadvantages
Inclusionary Zoning: A Framework for Assessing the Advantages and Disadvantages
Homes for Working Families released Inclusionary Zoning: A Framework for Assessing the Advantages and Disadvantages in May 2008. The study was conducted by the Center for Real Estate and the Metropolitan Studies Group at UNC Charlotte.
The report focuses on the potential benefits and drawbacks of implementing inclusionary zoning policies as a means to increase working families' access to affordable homes. The study describes the structure of inclusionary zoning ordinances and develops a framework for their consideration; examines the economic implications of inclusionary zoning policies; and provides an explanation of the inclusionary zoning best practices already being implemented across the United States.
Analyzing Affordability in Metropolitan Housing Markets
Analyzing Affordability in Metropolitan Housing Markets: An Examination of Affordability for Middle-Income Households
Homes for Working Families released Analyzing Affordability in Metropolitan Housing Markets: An Examination of Affordability for Middle-Income Households, a study conducted by Moody's Economy.com, in January 2008. This report provides the first quantitative analysis that has been conducted to determine the effects of the housing crisis by geographical area, income group and duration.
The report focuses on home affordability for middle-income households - those earning between 60 percent and 120 percent of area median income - in light of recent developments in house prices, interest rates and mortgage markets. Understanding the barriers to home affordability for middle-income households is important as this group generally does not qualify for affordable housing programs and is experiencing rising cost burdens. In addition, examining the regional variations in housing affordability also is important, as house prices and supply conditions vary considerably by location.
