Institutional lenders have their place when it comes to commercial real estate finance. They are the primary source of loans for real estate projects and they offer a wide array of business and development-oriented services as well, all of which are definitely needed. But traditional lenders are not particularly well-suited to solving development challenges in a rapidly … [Read more...] about Crushing urban innovation.
Articles
A perfect union. Technology and housing.
Much has been written about the ability of technology to change our lives. But decades into the digital revolution, the results of technological advancement have a mixed track record at best. Every productivity gain or positive connection brought by new tech, is countered by harms such as hacking, service and product outages, and the unprecedented aggregation of wealth among … [Read more...] about A perfect union. Technology and housing.
Small lots. One solution to the housing problem.
At times the housing crisis can seem just insurmountable. Upwards of 11 million Americans spend half of their monthly take-home pay in rent, an increase of more than 30% over the last five years. Almost 25% of housing markets across the country are considered to be unaffordable for the vast majority of citizens. Many different factors influence the rising cost and availability … [Read more...] about Small lots. One solution to the housing problem.
Closing loopholes for better neighborhoods.
Unfortunately, loopholes are far too easy to find in the real estate development industry. They are hiding in plain sight in lots of places. Taxation, zoning, affordable housing programs or even government incentives jointly provide an abundance of loopholes and unscrupulous developers will find a way to take advantage of them. For many years, unethical, or at the very least … [Read more...] about Closing loopholes for better neighborhoods.
Bite-sized investments.
Equity crowdfunding is changing the real estate development landscape. Importantly, beyond raising equity, crowdfunding can help build support within communities that may otherwise hold neutral or even hostile feelings towards the building of a new real estate project. Micro-investments via crowdfunding platforms give community residents and stakeholders the opportunity to … [Read more...] about Bite-sized investments.