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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Real Estate

Garage Slab Lifting in Wetaskiwin: Restore Your Concrete Garage Floor

Published

4 days ago

October 1, 2025

reddeerconcretelifting

Reviewed
By Sophia Parker

Introduction

A sinking or uneven garage floor is more than just an eyesore—it can damage your vehicle, create tripping hazards, and even lead to serious foundation issues if left untreated. Homeowners searching for concrete garage floor lifting in Wetaskiwin need a reliable and proven solution that combines durability with affordability. Instead of replacing your slab, which is both expensive and time-consuming, professional slab lifting offers a faster, long-lasting fix that can restore the safety and functionality of your garage.

If you’ve been searching online for concrete lifting near me, chances are you’re already dealing with the frustrations of settling slabs. Uneven concrete can disrupt everything from driveways and walkways to patios and garage floors. Using methods like polyurethane foam injection, trusted concrete contractors can carefully lift and restore slabs with minimal disruption to your daily routine. Best of all, this technology works quickly, often allowing you to resume normal use within hours.

Finding dependable specialists is essential for long-term results, which is why homeowners turn to expert concrete contractors Wetaskiwin. Unlike general contractors, concrete specialists understand soil conditions, drainage issues, and slab pressure points unique to Alberta’s climate. By choosing local experts, you ensure that repairs are not only structurally sound but also resilient enough to withstand freezing winters and seasonal ground shifts.

Why Garage Slab Lifting Matters

An uneven garage slab can cause:

Difficulty parking and maneuvering vehicles
Water pooling and drainage problems
Cracks in the slab and surrounding foundation
Safety hazards from tripping or falling
Reduced property value and curb appeal

Instead of letting these issues escalate, professional slab lifting helps you restore functionality quickly, often at a fraction of the replacement cost.

Benefits of Polyurethane Foam Injection

One of the most innovative solutions offered by concrete companies specializing in foundation repair is polyurethane foam injection. This advanced technique provides:

Fast results: Garage and driveway slabs can often be used within hours.
Strong durability: Provides lasting support under heavy loads like vehicles.
Eco-friendly benefits: Requires minimal materials compared to full replacement.
Cost-effectiveness: Significantly less expensive than slab replacement.
Non-invasive repair: Minimal drilling, dust, and disruption to your property.

Choosing the Right Concrete Contractor

Not every contractor has the same expertise. When selecting someone for your project, look for:

Proven experience in residential and commercial slab lifting
Local knowledge of soil and weather-related conditions
Positive reviews for concrete repairs near me
Licensing, insurance, and warranties for added protection
Advanced equipment and modern injection techniques

With numerous concrete lifting companies near me, finding the right one can feel overwhelming. Always choose specialists who provide transparent pricing, clear explanations, and a free consultation before work begins.

Driveways, Sidewalks, and Beyond

While garage slabs are one of the most common problem areas, professional concrete lifting services also address:

Driveways and walkways
Patios and porches
Sidewalks and pool decks
Commercial flooring and warehouse slabs
Foundation sections that show early settlement signs

This multi-surface expertise makes concrete lifting a versatile and long-term solution for homeowners and businesses alike. Whether you need driveway lift repair, sidewalk leveling, or garage slab restoration, the process is similar and equally effective.

Why Wetaskiwin Homeowners Trust Local Specialists

Wetaskiwin’s cold winters, freeze-thaw cycles, and clay-heavy soil conditions make concrete settlement a recurring challenge. That’s why homeowners benefit from working with concrete contractors Wetaskiwin who understand the local environment. These experts provide tailored solutions for:

Preventing water infiltration into slabs and foundations
Addressing frost heave problems unique to Alberta
Creating long-lasting repairs that hold up under heavy snow loads
Ensuring stable structures while maintaining property aesthetics

Concrete Jacking: An Affordable Alternative

Another term homeowners often come across is concrete jacking near me. This process involves drilling small holes and injecting material beneath the slab to raise it back to its original position. Unlike older mudjacking methods, polyurethane injection offers faster, cleaner, and more reliable results with significantly less mess or downtime.

Why You Should Act Now

Delaying garage slab or driveway repairs often leads to:

Widening cracks and further sinking
Soil erosion beneath the slab
Increased repair costs as damage worsens
Potential foundation damage that spreads to the home

By choosing concrete lifting near me services promptly, you minimize long-term risks while saving both time and money.

The Red Deer Advantage

As one of the leading concrete contractors in central Alberta, Red Deer Concrete Lifting has built a reputation for precision, transparency, and customer satisfaction. With free consultations, clear estimates, and advanced technology, our team offers a level of expertise that sets us apart from other concrete companies. From garage floors to sidewalks and driveways, we’ve helped countless homeowners restore both safety and value to their properties.

Final Thoughts

Concrete settlement is a common but frustrating issue for homeowners in Wetaskiwin and across Alberta. Whether you’re dealing with a cracking garage floor, an uneven driveway, or sunken sidewalks, professional lifting provides the cost-effective, reliable, and long-lasting solution you need. By partnering with experienced specialists, you can restore peace of mind and enjoy a safe, level, and durable surface for years to come.

If you’re ready to restore your property with confidence, reach out today for expert concrete garage floor lifting services. With trusted concrete contractors Wetaskiwin on your side, you’ll enjoy a stable, functional, and attractive concrete surface with lasting results.

Author

reddeerconcretelifting

When it comes to exterior ground-level surfaces, many property owners also experience issues with cracked or uneven driveways. Professional driveway lift repair ensures a smooth, stable surface that not only boosts curb appeal but also prevents further sinking or drainage problems. By raising and leveling the existing slab, you avoid tearing out and replacing large sections of driveway concrete—making it both an eco-friendly and budget-friendly solution. Call us: 403-396-0046 , Email Now: info@reddeerconcretelifting.com View all posts

Business

Grow Your Brand Using Top Guest Posting Sites

Published

6 days ago

September 29, 2025

guestpost1

Reviewed
By Emilia Abigail

Introduction

Using trusted is one of the most powerful methods to gain visibility in the UAE digital landscape. When you publish on premium portals like Arabian Business, your brand gains credibility, drives quality traffic, and boosts SEO. Effective Link Building Services play a vital role in ensuring every post delivers measurable results for both Guest Post Technology and Guest Post Health niches. By selecting the right Guest Posting Sites, companies of all sizes can tap into large audiences and strengthen their digital presence.

What Is Guest Posting?

Guest posting is when you write content that gets published on someone else’s blog or website. In return, you often get credit as the author and can include a link back to your own website or social media. This is a great way to reach readers who may never have heard of you before.

Guest posting works well for both sides. The website owner gets quality content to share with their readers, and you get exposure, traffic, and sometimes even better search rankings.

Why Guest Posting Helps Grow Your Brand

Guest posting is one of the most effective ways to build your brand online. Here’s why it works so well:

1. Increases Brand Visibility

When your article is published on another website, your name and business are introduced to new people. If they like your content, they’ll remember you and maybe even look you up.

2. Builds Credibility and Trust

Writing for well-known websites makes you look like an expert. People are more likely to trust you if they see your content on trusted platforms.

3. Drives Quality Traffic

A good guest post usually includes a link to your website. Readers who click that link are often interested in what you offer, so the traffic you get is targeted and valuable.

4. Improves SEO

Search engines like Google see links from other websites as a sign that your site is trustworthy. These links, called backlinks, can help improve your rankings in search results.

5. Connects You with Industry Leaders

Guest posting can also help you build relationships with other bloggers and website owners. These connections can lead to new opportunities and long-term partnerships.

Benefits of Guest Posting Sites for Strong Brand Authority

High-DA allow you to showcase expertise and build trust with targeted audiences. Through strategic Link Building Services, each article earns valuable backlinks that strengthen your online presence. Whether your focus is Guest Post Technology updates or Guest Post Health awareness campaigns, these platforms help you stand out in a competitive market. Businesses looking for long-term growth consistently rely on these Guest Posting Sites to generate leads and enhance brand authority.

How Link Building Services Power UAE Guest Posting Sites

Professional Link Building Services connect your content with reputable Guest Posting Sites, ensuring lasting SEO benefits. A carefully designed campaign that integrates Guest Post Technology and Guest Post Health topics improves ranking on search engines and drives organic traffic. The synergy between Link Building Services and Guest Posting Sites means every published article is optimized to perform, delivering measurable ROI for your marketing investment.

Why UAE Businesses Prefer Premium Guest Posting Sites

Brands aiming for growth choose Guest Posting Sites like Arabian Business because they deliver high engagement and domain authority. With dedicated Link Building Services, every Guest Post Technology or Guest Post Health feature strengthens brand identity and search engine performance. Companies in industries ranging from finance to healthcare leverage these premium Guest Posting Sites to connect with audiences who value credibility and professional content.

Crafting Quality Content for Guest Posting Sites

Content tailored for Guest Posting Sites must be informative, keyword-optimized, and valuable to readers. Integrating professional Link Building Services ensures that each Guest Post Technology article and Guest Post Health story gains relevant backlinks for sustainable traffic. Compelling storytelling, factual accuracy, and audience-focused insights make your content more shareable and impactful on Guest Posting Sites.

Guest Posting Sites Drive Organic SEO with Link Building Services

Organic rankings improve when you leverage Guest Posting Sites combined with effective Whether you write about emerging Guest Post Technology trends or the latest Guest Post Health research, these strategies build long-term authority. The relationship between Guest Posting Sites and Link Building Services ensures your content not only reaches new readers but also boosts your website’s domain authority.

Expanding Audience Reach through Guest Posting Sites

Strategic Link Building Services amplify the reach of your Guest Post Technology and Guest Post Health content. By using authoritative Guest Posting Sites, you connect with new markets, attract qualified leads, and enhance brand visibility across the UAE. Consistent publication across multiple Guest Posting Sites keeps your brand at the forefront of industry conversations and builds trust among potential clients.

Role of Guest Posting Sites in Digital PR Campaigns

Modern PR campaigns rely heavily on Guest Posting Sites. Incorporating advanced Link Building Services ensures every Guest Post Technology or Guest Post Health article resonates with readers and search engines, strengthening overall digital reputation. Companies seeking strong digital PR results view Guest Posting Sites as essential tools for expanding media coverage and attracting organic mentions.

Measuring Success of Guest Posting Sites with Analytics

To evaluate the impact of Guest Posting Sites, track metrics like organic traffic, backlinks, and conversions. Expert Link Building Services help interpret these insights, ensuring your Guest Post Technology and Guest Post Health posts consistently deliver value. Analytics reveal which Guest Posting Sites generate the highest ROI, allowing you to refine strategy and focus on the most productive partnerships.

Best Practices for UAE-Focused Guest Posting Sites

Maintain relevance and authority by choosing Guest Posting Sites that align with your brand goals. Use professional Link Building Services to craft engaging Guest Post Technology and Guest Post Health content that meets local audience interests. Tailoring your approach to UAE trends—such as sustainability, fintech, and health innovations—makes your contributions more appealing on these high-authority Guest Posting Sites.

Scaling Your Strategy with Multiple Guest Posting Sites

Diversifying across various Guest Posting Sites expands exposure and builds powerful backlink profiles. Effective Link Building Services guarantee that and Guest Post Health articles remain discoverable and influential. Collaborating with several Guest Posting Sites also mitigates risk, ensuring consistent brand visibility even if one platform changes its policies.

Future of SEO with Guest Posting Sites and Link Building Services

The combination of high-quality Guest Posting Sites and innovative Link Building Services will shape the future of digital marketing. Publishing compelling Guest Post Technology insights and Guest Post Health updates ensures sustained growth. As search algorithms evolve, authoritative Guest Posting Sites will remain critical for building trust, while expert Link Building Services will help maintain top rankings in a competitive market.

Final Thoughts on Leveraging Guest Posting Sites

Investing in reputable Guest Posting Sites supported by strategic Link Building Services is no longer optional—it’s essential. Whether you focus on Guest Post Technology innovations or crucial Guest Post Health developments, consistent publishing on premium UAE platforms like Arabian Business secures your brand’s digital future. By integrating strong Link Building Services and high-value Guest Posting Sites, businesses of all types can achieve unmatched online authority and audience engagement.

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Home Garden

How Power Washing in Massachusetts Enhances Curb Appeal

Published

1 week ago

September 26, 2025

guttahsbaharris

Reviewed
By Brielle Thomas

Introduction

In Massachusetts, where historic charm and modern homes stand side by side, curb appeal is everything. Whether you own a colonial in Boston, a lakeside retreat in Worcester, or a suburban home in Springfield, the exterior of your property makes the first impression. One of the most powerful ways to transform that impression is through power washing Massachusetts homes and businesses. Clean exteriors not only beautify your property but also significantly boost its value.

Why Curb Appeal Matters

Real estate agents consistently stress the importance of curb appeal. Potential buyers often decide within minutes whether a property is worth considering further. A clean driveway, spotless siding, and a bright, debris-free deck all suggest careful maintenance. Even if you aren’t selling, curb appeal increases pride of ownership and makes your home more inviting to guests.

Without regular care, homes can appear neglected. Dirt, mildew, and algae growth dull surfaces, while stains on driveways and patios create the impression of disrepair. Professional power washing Massachusetts services reverse these effects quickly, restoring your property’s charm.

What is Power Washing?

Power washing, also known as pressure washing, is a cleaning method that uses a high-pressure water spray to remove dirt, stains, mold, and other buildup from surfaces. It is safe for many materials like concrete, brick, vinyl siding, wood decks, and fences. Unlike simple rinsing with a garden hose, power washing delivers a strong stream of water that reaches deep into cracks and crevices.

Professional power washing companies in Massachusetts often use hot water and eco-friendly detergents to clean stubborn stains and organic growth, leaving surfaces spotless.

Key Areas Where Power Washing Makes the Biggest Impact

Siding and Walls: Dirt, mildew, and pollutants cling to siding, making it look older than it is. Vinyl, brick, and wood surfaces all benefit from professional cleaning.
Driveways and Walkways: Stains from oil, salt, and vehicle traffic create dark, unsightly marks. Power washing restores brightness, improving overall appearance.
Decks and Patios: Weathered wood or moss-covered stone patios can look unsafe and unwelcoming. Cleaning revives these spaces, making them more functional and appealing.
Roofs: Black streaks caused by algae aren’t just ugly; they reduce energy efficiency and roof lifespan. Gentle soft washing techniques restore shingles without damage.

The Financial Value of Power Washing

Image by: Yandex.com

Investing in professional cleaning has measurable financial benefits. According to home improvement studies, properties with strong curb appeal sell faster and for higher prices. For Massachusetts homeowners preparing to sell, scheduling power washing services can add thousands of dollars to the asking price.

Even for those not selling, maintaining a home’s exterior prevents costly repairs. For example:

Power washing driveways prevents cracks caused by salt buildup.
Cleaning siding reduces the need for premature repainting.
Washing roofs extends shingle life, saving thousands on replacement.

Commercial Properties Benefit Too

Businesses in Massachusetts also gain from professional cleaning. Customers are more likely to trust and enter a store or office that looks clean and well cared for. From storefronts to parking lots, power washing Massachusetts commercial properties creates a professional image that builds trust with clients and improves foot traffic.

Curb Appeal as Preventive Maintenance

Curb appeal isn’t just about beauty it’s also about prevention. When your home is regularly cleaned, it’s easier to spot problems early. For instance, pressure washing may reveal cracks in siding, loose shingles, or small areas of rot before they worsen. In this way, power washing serves as both a cosmetic and practical investment.

Areas Commonly Power Washed in Massachusetts

House Siding: Vinyl, brick, stucco, and wood siding all benefit from power washing to remove grime and stains.
Driveways and Sidewalks: Concrete and asphalt surfaces look cleaner and more inviting.
Decks and Patios: Wooden and composite decks become brighter and free from algae or dirt.
Fences: Wooden and vinyl fences regain their original look.
Roofs: Some power washing services clean roofs to remove moss and debris safely.

The Power Washing Process: What to Expect

If you hire a professional power washing service in Massachusetts, here is what typically happens:

Inspection: The technician checks the surfaces to decide the best cleaning method and equipment.
Preparation: Plants and outdoor furniture are covered or moved to protect them.
Cleaning: The power washer is used carefully to clean surfaces. Hot water and detergents may be applied to remove tough stains.
Rinse: All detergents and loosened dirt are rinsed away.
Final Check: The technician inspects the work to ensure all areas are clean and damage-free.

How Often Should You Power Wash Your Home in Massachusetts?

Because of the region’s changing weather, it’s best to power wash your home once or twice a year. Spring is a popular time to clean off winter grime, while fall cleaning helps prepare your home for winter weather. Regular washing keeps mold, dirt, and stains from building up and damaging surfaces.

DIY vs. Professional Power Washing

While some homeowners choose to rent power washers and clean their homes themselves, hiring a professional has many advantages:

Professionals have the right tools and experience to avoid damage.
They know the correct pressure for different surfaces.
They use eco-friendly cleaning agents that protect your plants and pets.
They save you time and effort, completing the job quickly and thoroughly.

Cost of Power Washing in Massachusetts

The cost of power washing depends on the size of your property, the number of surfaces to clean, and the level of dirt buildup. On average, Massachusetts homeowners can expect to pay between $200 and $500 for a complete home exterior power wash. While this may seem like an investment, the long-term benefits to curb appeal and property value make it worthwhile.

Conclusion

Power washing is more than a quick clean—it’s a powerful tool for protecting your investment and boosting property value. Massachusetts homeowners and business owners alike benefit from the instant facelift and long-term cost savings. Whether you want to sell your property or simply enjoy a more beautiful home, power washing Massachusetts services deliver results that pay off today and in the future.