High Quality vs. Minimum Quality Housing: The Hidden Cost of Minimum Quality in "Affordable Housing"
- vaughn74
- May 20
- 5 min read
This is the first of many informational writings I will share regarding High Quality vs. Minimum Quality housing. In this series, I seek to dig deeper into the nuances that differentiate these two categories of housing, exploring not only their structural and aesthetic components but also their broader implications for communities and individual families. For those who haven't seen or read any of my previous social media posts or blogs, I am sharing this information in response to the plethora of “affordable housing” programs and projects that exist throughout the Chicagoland area, which encompasses both the City and its surrounding Suburbs. This is a critical conversation that needs to occur as we navigate the complexities of housing in "urban" and often, less affluent, communities.
Why am I so concerned about "affordable housing" you ask? My concern is that while “affordable housing” is indeed good-natured in its intent to help provide housing to those in need, it often falls short of delivering a HIGH-QUALITY housing product. Such housing should not only be accessible, but also sustainable, marketable as a viable Real Estate comparable, financially feasible and beneficial for the homeowner, and effective in producing the “generational wealth” it purports to help create. Unfortunately, many affordable housing initiatives prioritize cost-cutting measures (for the sake of making them feasible; for investment or to qualify for subsidies), which can result in the use of subpar construction materials and lack essential amenities that are consistent with homes built in the 21st Century. These deficiencies can lead to a cycle of disinvestment, where properties deteriorate financially and functionally at a faster rate over time, and residents find themselves living in environments that do not promote their well-being or economic stability, or economic advancement (more of the same, and the consistent with the conditions that have historically created the communities that currently require "affordable housing"). In fact, as I will explain in future writings, minimum quality “affordable housing” development Programs and Projects can inadvertently create and re-create stigmatized communities that may further adversely affect property values and the overall perception of neighborhoods. When affordable housing is not designed with high quality and sustainability in mind, it risks becoming synonymous with neglect and decline, which can deter potential buyers and investors (institutional and/or individual). This stigma can be particularly damaging in areas that are striving for revitalization and economic growth. Instead of fostering a sense of community and pride, these "affordable housing" developments can lead to increased segregation and isolation of residents, undermining the very goals of inclusivity, wealth creation, and sustainability that they aim to achieve.
To expand, the long-term implications of minimum quality housing extend beyond mere aesthetics and property values; they can also impact the health and safety of residents. Minimal quality constructed housing may lack adequate insulation, ventilation, or safety features, leading to higher utility costs and potential health hazards (as compared to features of HIGH QUALITY housing). Families living in such conditions may experience a range of issues, from respiratory problems due to mold, to safety concerns arising from non-optimized fire escapes. The ramifications of these housing quality disparities are profound, affecting not only individual families but also the fabric of entire communities. Reminder: Building Codes establish minimum standards to ensure public safety, health, and welfare in relation to construction.
Over the course of this series, I will share a variety of real-life examples that illustrate the stark contrasts between high-quality and minimum-quality housing projects that I have encountered in my industry-specific professional journey. These examples will not only highlight the architectural, design, and construction differences, but will also delve into the impacts these housing solutions have on the lives of the residents who occupy them. By examining these case studies in detail, we can gain a deeper understanding of the long-term benefits associated with investing in HIGH QUALITY housing solutions that definitively cater to the diverse needs of residents, while simultaneously contributing positively to the broader community.
To reiterate, HIGH QUALITY housing is not merely about aesthetics; it also encompasses a range of factors including but not limited to durability, safety, accessibility, and the ability to foster a sense of community among residents. In contrast, minimum-quality housing often results in environments that can lead to a host of social issues, such as increased crime rates, health problems, and a diminished sense of belonging. Throughout this series, I will illustrate how high-quality housing can lead to improved health outcomes, enhanced social cohesion, and greater economic stability and upward mobility for individuals and families.
Further, as we progress through the series, I will explore various dimensions such as construction materials, energy efficiency, and labor costs. I will address the economic implications of investing in high-quality housing, including how it can lead to increased property values, enhanced community pride, and reduced public spending on social services and subsidies. I will also advocate for the implementation of policies and practices that prioritize the creation of sustainable, marketable, and DIGNIFIED living environments for all (The evidence will show that when HIGH-QUALITY housing developments are prioritized, we are not just building aesthetically pleasing homes; we are fostering thriving communities where people can live, work, and flourish. Together, everyone should advocate for a future where HIGH-QUALITY housing is a fundamental right, accessible to everyone, and a cornerstone of a healthy society).
Ultimately, through programmatic collaborative efforts, which I hope are an outcome of my written work, I seek to promote HIGH-QUALITY housing initiatives, so that we can ensure that every individual has access to a safe and nurturing home that supports his/her aspirations and well-being...This, I believe, to be the foundation of wealth creation and freedom in America.
As a final note to serve as disclaimer, it is important to clarify that my efforts do NOT endeavor to answer EVERY question about how “affordable housing” is accomplished. The topic of affordable housing is incredibly complex and multifaceted, encompassing a wide range of economic, social, and political factors that influence its development and accessibility (It would take years for me to explain everything that influences "affordable housing", and my intention is not to provide an exhaustive analysis of every aspect related to this issue). Additionally, I do not seek to criticize developers who are endeavoring to build “affordable housing” (On the contrary, I recognize the significant challenges and pressures developers face in a market that often prioritizes profit over social responsibility. These developers often operate with very thin margins (sometimes they operate in the absence of margins and survive only through government subsidies) and must navigate a plethora of regulations, limited financing options, and sometimes unrealistic community expectations).
Join me on this thought-provoking journey as I uncover the critical distinctions between HIGH-QUALITY vs. Minimum-Quality Housing, and the Hidden Cost of Minimum Quality in "Affordable Housing".
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