Chalk this report released by SWRPA as stating the obvious. As real estate prices have shot up in the last few years, the affordable factor in housing disappears. And that’s what the report basically says in today’s Advocate. One solution, the report states is to encourage 40 year mortgages:

The study recommends state and local governments pursue density bonuses and other incentives for developers to create affordable housing in those areas.

Other recommendations include SWRPA becoming an affordable housing information clearinghouse in its role as the region’s main intergovernmental planning agency, and urging lenders to create more flexibility in mortgages so home buyers can borrow more within acceptable limits.

[Read more →]

Along time ago on a television far away, a Wendy’s commercial once ended with Clara Peller asking “Where’s the Beef?” after peering at a very small burger on a rather large bun. You get the impression reading Amanda Pinto’s article in the Hour today, that the BOE bun was rather large. I can almost hear Dr. evil Corda saying, “This is what we are going to do, we’ll fluff up the presentation and create some understanding.” Oh joy, he brought out the powerpoint. Crank up the victrola, the good there show was about to begin.

Ready?

[Read more →]