September 2001

Planning

Copyright by American Planning Association

Myths and Misconceptions About Affordable Housing

The Fannie Mae Foundation asked the City Design Center staff to list the public's most common misconceptions about affordable housing and design. These are the top 12.

1. Good design drives up housing costs
Efficient planning and design can actually lower both construction and maintenance costs.

2. Appearance is a frill
In fact, quality design helps affordable housing to fit its context. It also removes the stigma often associated with lower cost housing.

3. Meeting basic construction and safety standards is enough
If that were true, we wouldn't be tearing down all those public housing projects.

4. Codes and regulations ensure quality housing
True. However, unduly restrictive regulations drive up costs and limit innovation, and may be used to exclude affordable housing from a community.

5. One size fits all
In the U.S., the single-family detached house is considered the ideal. Yet other housing types may better serve the needs of different types of households.

6. This is an urban problem
The shortage may be greatest in cities, but rural and suburban areas also have a great need for affordable housing.

7. The need is temporary
For most low- and moderate-income households, the need is lifelong.

8. Accessible design is too expensive
Approximately two out of every 10 people in the U.S. will need accessibility features in their home at some point. Building accessibility into the initial design saves money later.

9. Energy and resource efficiency make housing unaffordable
Incorporating energy and resource efficiency holds down utility bills and the life-cycle costs of housing, ensuring affordability over the long term.

10. Downsizing is the only way to lower housing prices
Studies show that downsizing does not necessarily lower costs, but it does potentially burden households with inadequate space.

11. Only "poor people" need help
Statistics show that even people earning at or somewhat above their community's median income, may not be able to afford decent, safe market-rate housing.

12. Lowering construction costs will do it
Construction accounts for only a small percentage of total housing costs. Equally important are financing costs, land acquisition, land development, and maintenance.