Real Estate

Mayors agree, Congress should invest in affordable housing

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Published

8 years ago

July 25, 2017

Harris

Reviewed
By Theodore Joseph

Photo: Shutterstock

Introduction

Across the United States, city leaders are sounding the alarm: the lack of affordable housing threatens local economies and the well‑being of millions of families. In response, a growing coalition of mayors has united behind a single demand—Congress must step up and invest substantially in affordable housing. From rising rent burdens to surging homelessness, the housing crisis affects communities of every size. Mayors believe that federal funding is the key to unlocking new homes, reducing costs, and stabilizing neighborhoods. This article explores why mayors support federal investment, outlines proposed solutions, and shows how Congress can act now to address America’s affordable housing challenge.

The Growing Affordable Housing Shortage

The United States faces a shortage of millions of homes affordable to low‑ and middle‑income households. Recent studies estimate a shortfall of over 7 million rental units priced for families earning 60 percent or less of their area median income. In high‑cost markets like New York, San Francisco, and Boston, that gap is even wider. As a result, nearly half of all renters spend more than 30 percent of their income on housing—a threshold that economists define as a rent burden. Many families sacrifice food, health care, or education to keep a roof over their heads. Without new construction and preservation of existing affordable units, this shortage will grow, forcing more families into unstable living conditions.

Why Mayors Are Leading the Call

Mayors see the effects of the housing crisis firsthand. When rents rise faster than wages, municipal budgets strain under higher demand for social services. Emergency shelters fill up, unhoused populations grow, and local agencies scramble to provide support. Affordable housing is not just a social good; it underpins economic stability. Workers need to live near their jobs, students need stable homes to learn, and seniors need safe options to age in place. Mayors recognize that without federal backing, local governments often lack the funding and land resources to build enough homes at the necessary price points.

Proposed Federal Investments

Mayors’ coalition proposals focus on several proven federal tools:

Low‑Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC):
Expanding this tax credit would incentivize private developers to build and rehabilitate affordable units. LIHTC has financed more than 3 million homes since 1986. By increasing credit allocations and raising per‑project caps, Congress can spur thousands of new units.
National Housing Trust Fund (HTF):
The HTF provides direct grants to states and localities for rental housing for families with the lowest incomes. Fully funding the HTF at $3 billion per year would build or preserve roughly 100,000 homes annually.
Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8):
Vouchers help low‑income families afford private‑market rents. Increasing voucher funding and streamlining waitlists would reduce homelessness and displacement. Mayors call for 200,000 new vouchers to cover families now on waiting lists.
HOME Investment Partnerships Program:
HOME grants assist in building, buying, or rehabilitating affordable housing. Boosting funding for HOME from current levels could support tens of thousands of additional units.
Capital Magnet Fund:
This program awards competitive grants to nonprofit and community organizations to leverage private capital for affordable housing and revitalization. Expanding this fund helps unlock local investments.
Supportive Housing for Vulnerable Populations:
Allocations for Permanent Supportive Housing combine rental assistance with services for people experiencing chronic homelessness or severe health challenges. Mayors advocate doubling this funding to end chronic homelessness.

Benefits of Federal Affordable Housing Funding

Investing in affordable housing yields broad economic and social returns:

Job Creation: Construction, property management, and maintenance work generate thousands of local jobs. Every $1 billion in housing investment can create over 13,000 jobs.
Economic Activity: Workers with lower rent burdens have more disposable income, boosting local businesses. Families can spend on groceries, childcare, and transportation instead of paying rent.
Health Outcomes: Stable housing reduces stress and exposure to unsafe conditions, leading to fewer hospital visits and lower health care costs.
Education and Opportunity: Children in stable homes perform better in school. Parents can pursue job training without the disruption of moves.
Community Revitalization: Affordable housing projects can transform underused land into vibrant, mixed‑income neighborhoods, reducing crime and improving public safety.

Bipartisan Support and Political Momentum

Despite partisan divides on many issues, affordable housing funding has traditionally garnered bipartisan backing. Leaders from both parties recognize the human and economic toll of the housing shortage. In recent years, Congress has considered bills to expand LIHTC and HTF, while President Biden’s budget proposals have included historic increases. The coalition of mayors from red and blue cities emphasizes that housing is not a political issue but a community necessity. This shared view creates an opening for Congress to act, especially as midterm elections loom and affordable housing rises on voters’ priority lists.

Successful City Examples

Many cities demonstrate how federal investment can translate into real homes:

Denver, Colorado: With HELP from LIHTC and HOME grants, Denver built over 5,000 affordable units in five years, stabilizing neighborhoods and preventing displacement amid rapid growth.
Miami, Florida: Federal vouchers and HTF funds helped convert motels into supportive housing for seniors, reducing unsheltered homelessness by 20 percent in two years.
Minneapolis, Minnesota: A portable housing voucher program, backed by increased Section 8 funding, reduced wait times from two years to under six months for families at risk of spending half their income on rent.

These examples show that targeted federal dollars, when paired with local zoning reforms and community partnerships, can achieve measurable success.

Policy Recommendations for Congress

To meet mayors’ demands and tackle the housing crisis, Congress should:

Enact the Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act: This bill strengthens LIHTC by boosting credit allocations, raising income targeting to serve extremely low‑income families, and creating a minimum 4 percent floor for bond‑financed projects.
Fully Fund the National Housing Trust Fund: At least $3 billion annually to address the lowest‑income renters’ needs.
Expand Housing Choice Vouchers: Provide 200,000 new vouchers, raise voucher funding to cover higher rent burdens, and simplify eligibility.
Increase HOME Program Grants: Double funding to help smaller cities and rural areas build or rehab affordable homes.
Support Zoning Flexibility Grants: Pair federal funding with incentives for local governments to reform zoning, allowing denser, transit‑oriented development near jobs and schools.

By enacting these measures, Congress can unlock the full impact of local and private investments in affordable housing.

Addressing Common Concerns

Some opponents worry about federal spending levels and government overreach. To address these concerns:

Emphasize Return on Investment: Housing investments often pay for themselves through job creation, increased tax revenues, and lower social service costs.
Preserve Local Control: Block grants like HOME and HTF let states and cities set priorities based on local housing markets and needs.
Phase in Funding: Gradual increases allow markets and builders to adjust, preventing cost spikes.
Accountability and Oversight: Clear reporting requirements ensure funds serve the intended populations and deliver results.

Conclusion

Mayors across the nation agree that Congress must invest in affordable housing to address the severe shortage threatening families and local economies. By expanding proven federal tools—such as LIHTC, the National Housing Trust Fund, and Housing Choice Vouchers—and pairing funding with local zoning reforms, Congress can help close the gap of millions of needed homes. The benefits are clear: stronger communities, healthier individuals, job growth, and economic stability. With bipartisan support and successful city examples demonstrating impact, now is the time for Congress to act. Investing in affordable housing is not just a moral imperative—it is a smart economic choice that will improve the quality of life for countless Americans for generations to come.

Author

Harris

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How to List Your Property for Rent: A Step-by-Step Guide

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2 days ago

January 14, 2026

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Listing a property for rent may sound simple, but doing it the right way makes a big difference. A well-made listing attracts better tenants, reduces vacancy time, and saves you effort later. Many property owners struggle because they rush the process or miss key details. This guide explains how to list property for rent step by step, using clear and practical advice.

Why Listing Your Property the Right Way Matters

Your rental listing is the first impression for potential tenants. It informs them of what to expect and whether your property meets their needs. A poorly listed property can result in low interest, wasted inquiries, or attracting the wrong tenants.

When you list your property the right way, you:

Reach serious and relevant renters
Get better quality inquiries
Rent out faster
Avoid confusion and repeated questions

Prepare Your Property Before You List

Before you list property for rent, make sure the home is ready.

Clean and Fix Small Issues

Tenants notice details. Clean the property thoroughly. Fix leaky taps, broken switches, or chipped paint. Small repairs improve trust and value.

Decide the Right Rent

Check similar properties in your area. Look at size, location, and amenities. Setting a fair rent helps you attract more renters quickly.

Write a Clear and Honest Property Description

Your description should be simple and accurate. Avoid exaggeration. Focus on what renters care about most.

What to Include

When you list property for rent, include:

Property type (house, apartment, room)
Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
Size of the property
Monthly rent and deposit
Location and nearby landmarks
Available move-in date

Short sentences work best. Clear information builds trust.

Use High-Quality Photos

Photos are one of the most important parts of a rental listing.

Tips for Better Photos

Use natural daylight
Clean rooms before taking pictures
Capture all key areas
Avoid blurry or dark images

Good photos increase views and inquiries. They help renters imagine living there.

Highlight Key Features and Amenities

Renters often scan listings quickly. Make it easy for them.

Use bullet points for features such as:

Parking availability
Furnished or unfurnished
Balcony or garden
Air conditioning or heating
Pet policy

This makes your listing easier to read and compare.

Choose the Right Platform to List

Where you list matters as much as how you list.

Look for platforms that:

Attract active renters
Are easy to use
Allow you to list rental property for free
Offer inquiry and lead management

Free listing platforms reduce cost and risk. They are ideal for first-time landlords and independent property owners.

Be Clear About Rules and Preferences

Transparency saves time. If you have specific rules, mention them clearly.

Examples:

No smoking
Pets allowed or not
Family or working professionals preferred

This filters out unsuitable inquiries and helps you connect with the right tenants.

Respond Quickly to Inquiries

Once your listing is live, inquiries will start coming in. Speed matters.

Why Fast Responses Help

Renters often contact multiple listings
Quick replies show professionalism
Faster replies increase booking chances

Using one dashboard to manage inquiries makes this easier and more organized.

Review Applications Carefully

Do not rush the final decision.

When reviewing applications:

Check basic tenant details
Ask relevant questions
Verify documents if needed

Choosing the right tenant reduces future problems and ensures a smooth rental experience.

Update or Improve Your Listing if Needed

If you are not getting enough responses, review your listing.

Ask yourself:

Are the photos clear and attractive?
Is the rent competitive?
Is the description complete?

Small updates can improve visibility and results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many property owners make simple mistakes when they list property for rent.

Avoid:

Posting incomplete details
Using poor-quality photos
Setting unrealistic rent
Ignoring inquiries
Listing on the wrong platforms

Fixing these mistakes can improve your success quickly.

Final Takeaway

Learning how to list property for rent the right way is about clarity, preparation, and consistency. Prepare your property well. Write a clear description. Use good photos. Choose the right platform where you can list rental property for free. Respond fast and screen tenants carefully.

A strong listing attracts the right renters and saves time. When done correctly, renting out your property becomes simple, smooth, and stress-free.

A strong listing attracts the right renters and saves time. It also reduces back-and-forth communication and avoids unnecessary follow-ups. When your listing is clear and complete, tenants understand the property better before reaching out. This leads to more serious inquiries and fewer mismatches.

Taking time to prepare your property creates a positive impression. Clean spaces, working fixtures, and small repairs show that the property is well maintained. This builds trust and encourages renters to take the next step. Clear photos and honest details help renters feel confident about their choice.

Choosing the right platform is equally important. A platform that allows you to list rental property for free helps you save money while reaching active renters. It also gives you flexibility to update your listing anytime. Managing inquiries from one place keeps everything organized and reduces stress.

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The Importance of Professional Lift Installation in Urban Singapore

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sophietremblay

In today’s urban landscapes, elevators are essential components that define the functionality and experience of buildings. They significantly impact accessibility, safety, traffic flow, and user interactions.

In densely populated cities, lift systems are not just a convenience; they are critical infrastructures that facilitate daily movement and interactions among residents and visitors alike.

The Growing Need for Professional Lift Installation

As Singapore undergoes rapid urbanization, the demand for consistent and compliant lift systems has surged. Professional lift installation is no longer an option but a necessity in this fast-evolving built environment. This specialized service combines planning, regulatory compliance, and precision engineering to enhance both residential and business developments.

Understanding Professional Lift Installation

Professional lift installation involves a comprehensive, step-by-step process executed by highly qualified specialists. This process includes:

Effective Planning: Working closely with architects and engineers to ensure the lift systems align with the overall building structure.
Design: Creating a tailored lift design that suits the specific requirements of the building.
Installation and Testing: Installing the lift system, followed by rigorous testing to ensure it meets all safety regulations.
Certification: Obtaining necessary certifications before the lift is made available for public use.

This thorough approach assures the reliability and safety of lift systems, ensuring they function optimally in various environments.

The Singapore Context

Singapore’s skyline is dominated by high-rise buildings, creating unique challenges for vertical mobility. The demand for reliable lifts is high, and safety expectations are stringent. The government has established a set of precise lift regulations to maintain project quality. Compliance with these standards is vital to ensure user safety and optimal performance.

Key Aspects of Professional Installations in Singapore

Adherence to Safety Codes: Professional installers rigorously comply with guidelines set by the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), Building and Construction Authority (BCA), and Ministry of Manpower (MOM). This compliance minimizes risks associated with lift operations.
Location Evaluation and Planning: Each building has unique challenges. Detailed site surveys and feasibility studies are critical for effective planning, taking into account shaft sizes, load demands, and traffic flow.
Integration of Advanced Technology: Modern lift systems incorporate intelligent solutions, including regenerative drives and destination-based dispatch systems, enhancing both energy efficiency and user experience. These systems are designed to run smoothly and minimize wear over time.

The Science of Lift Installation

Understanding how lift systems work is essential for stakeholders involved in the installation process. A systematic approach ensures compatibility and reliability.

Pre-Design and Planning

The process starts with discussions among stakeholders to assess construction layouts and regulatory restrictions. This stage ensures that functional and compliance requirements align.

Installation Process

The installation process includes:

Mechanical and Electrical Setup: This involves installing guide rails, cabins, electrical systems, controls, and safety devices.
Testing and Certification: The lift undergoes rigorous testing, including load and speed tests, followed by independent inspections to verify compliance before handover.

This structured methodology safeguards both users and building owners, ensuring a smooth operation of lift systems.

Benefits of Professional Lift Installation

Enhanced Safety and Compliance

Professional installations significantly reduce operational risks through certified processes that meet legal safety requirements, providing peace of mind for occupants and owners alike.

Cost-Effectiveness and Long-Term Performance

Well-installed systems typically experience fewer failures, reducing maintenance costs. Energy-efficient components not only lower operational expenses but also contribute to the system’s overall longevity and performance.

Quality Assurance and Transparency

Professional teams maintain detailed documentation and provide regular progress reports to stakeholders. This transparency fosters credibility and accountability throughout the project.

Selecting a Professional Installer

When choosing a lift installation contractor, it is essential to verify their credentials and experience. Look for:

Proper licensing
Previous work references
Knowledge of local regulations

Understanding the cost factors involved is also crucial, as installation expenses can vary based on building height, design specifics, and maintenance packages.

The Future of Lift Installation

As technology advances, the development of smart elevators equipped with data-driven controls and predictive maintenance integration is gaining traction. These innovations lead to energy-efficient designs that meet environmental standards and enhance user experiences.

Conclusion

Professional lift installation is a vital element in the modern architectural landscape of Singapore. It ensures safety, compliance, and reliability in an urban setting characterized by vertical growth. By employing structured processes and advanced technology, professional lift installation fosters sustainable building performance and enhances user mobility.

FAQs

What does professional lift installation involve?
It encompasses planning, design, installation, testing, and certification processes that comply with local safety standards.

Why are lift regulations important?
They ensure user safety, system reliability, and adherence to standards outlined by local authorities.

How long does the installation process take?
The timeline varies based on building size and lift type but can be expedited through effective planning.

Do professional installations lead to fewer maintenance issues?
Yes, properly installed systems generally experience fewer breakdowns, supporting smoother long-term maintenance.

Are smart elevator systems becoming common?
Yes, their adoption is increasing due to benefits like energy efficiency and enhanced user control.

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Escape to Serenity in Jordan Springs

In a world filled with noise and constant demands, you can find true luxury in a home that serves as your personal sanctuary—specifically, a place where its very design weaves in peace. For example, a brand new house in Jordan Springs offers more than just shelter; more importantly, it provides a serene retreat where modern living meets tranquility.

Builders craft these homes within a thoughtfully planned community, which nestles among abundant green spaces. Furthermore, the area is designed for quiet enjoyment, ultimately to be your haven.

Ultimately, you can discover a lifestyle where calm is the foundation, and every detail contributes to your sense of security and well-being.

Designed for Calm: Architecture That Soothes the Soul

A brand new home in Jordan Springs is intentionally designed to foster peace and relaxation from the moment you step inside.

Tranquil, Light-Filled Spaces: Expansive windows and thoughtful orientation bathe interiors in natural light, creating bright, airy rooms that feel uplifting and calm. Open-plan living areas offer unobstructed sightlines and a sense of flow, reducing visual clutter and mental noise.
Acoustic Design for Quiet Enjoyment: Superior sound insulation between rooms and from external noise ensures your home remains a quiet refuge. Enjoy peaceful mornings, focused work-from-home hours, and uninterrupted relaxation without the intrusion of neighborhood sounds.
Private Outdoor Sanctuaries: Seamless transitions to private courtyards, landscaped gardens, or quiet balconies extend your living space into the open air. These personal outdoor areas become your private escape for morning coffee, evening reading, or simply listening to the birds.

A Community That Prioritizes Peaceful Living

Jordan Springs is more than a suburb—it’s a master-planned environment where serenity is a community value.

Abundance of Green Space for Mental Restoration: With over 50 hectares of parks and reserves, nature is always within reach. The simple act of a walk along a tree-lined trail or time spent in a quiet park provides a powerful antidote to daily stress, promoting mental well-being for the whole family.
Safe, Walkable Neighbourhoods: Wide, pedestrian-friendly streetscapes, safe playgrounds, and a low-traffic design create an environment where children can play freely and adults can stroll in peace, fostering a profound sense of safety and community.
Convenience Without the Chaos: The Jordan Springs Central town centre provides all essential amenities close by, eliminating the stress of long, congested trips for groceries or errands. Peace of mind comes from having what you need within a calm, easy reach.

The Sanctuary Benefits of “Brand New”

Choosing a brand new home inherently contributes to a more peaceful, worry-free lifestyle.

A Fresh, Uncluttered Start: Move into a space that is pristine and untouched, free from the residual energy or wear of previous occupants. A blank canvas allows you to create a personalized, harmonious environment without the burden of immediate updates or renovations.
Reliability That Brings Peace of Mind: New plumbing, electrical, roofing, and appliances mean dramatically fewer worries about unexpected breakdowns or urgent repairs. The comprehensive builder warranties provide a long-term safety net, allowing you to truly relax and enjoy your home.
Effortless, Low-Maintenance Living: Modern materials and smart design minimize upkeep. Spend your time living in your sanctuary, not constantly maintaining it. Easy-care gardens and durable finishes mean your weekends are reserved for rejuvenation, not chores.

An Investment in Your Wellbeing

Securing a sanctuary is one of the most valuable investments you can make in yourself and your family.

A Foundation for Health and Happiness:

A peaceful home environment directly reduces stress, improves sleep, and enhances overall quality of life. It becomes the stable base from which your family can thrive.
Lasting Value in a Desirable Locale:

A serene, modern home in the highly sought-after Jordan Springs community is a timeless asset. The demand for such balanced, amenity-rich living ensures your sanctuary is also a wise financial investment for the future.

Energy and Resource Autopilot:

Smart meters and automation can run high-energy appliances during off-peak solar generation or cheaper tariff periods. Rainwater tanks with auto-top-up from the mains ensure the garden is watered without you lifting a hose.
Maintenance Alerts and Management:

Premium builds may include systems that monitor filter life in range hoods or water softeners, alerting you via an app before performance declines. A digital home manual keeps all appliance warranties, paint codes, and service contacts in one searchable place.
Community Convenience:

Leveraging strata services for bulk-billed internet, shared electric vehicle charging bookings, or even optional cleaning or gardening services can offload entire categories of life-admin.

Find Your Peace with NewSquares

We connect you with brand new houses in Jordan Springs. These homes are not just for living. They are designed for restorative, peaceful living.

At NewSquares, we specialise in identifying properties. We look for homes that aren’t just new. They are next-generation. We understand the features that signify true future-proofing. We can guide you to brand new houses in Jordan Springs. These homes are built for the world to come.