1. How has the housing affordability crisis impacted residents in Puerto Rico?

The housing affordability crisis in Puerto Rico has had a significant impact on residents in the following ways:

1. High cost of living:
The cost of living in Puerto Rico is significantly higher than the average for the United States. This means that residents have to spend a larger portion of their income on basic necessities, including housing.

2. Limited affordable housing options:
Due to the high demand and limited supply, there are very few affordable housing options available for residents. This makes it difficult for low-income families to find suitable and affordable housing.

3. Housing shortage:
Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017 exacerbated the housing crisis in Puerto Rico by causing widespread destruction of infrastructure and homes. The shortage of housing has only worsened since then, making it challenging for residents to find adequate and affordable housing.

4. Displacement:
Many residents have been displaced from their homes due to natural disasters or gentrification. Those who cannot afford to rebuild or relocate are forced into overcrowded or substandard living conditions.

5. Homelessness:
The lack of affordable housing options has contributed to an increase in homelessness in Puerto Rico. According to a report by UnidosUS, there were over 1,000 homeless individuals living on the streets or in shelters in San Juan alone as of December 2018.

6. Financial strain:
For those who are able to secure a home, the high cost of rent or mortgage payments puts a significant strain on their finances. This leaves little room for saving or investing in other important areas such as education or healthcare.

Overall, the housing affordability crisis has had a profound impact on the overall well-being and quality of life for many residents in Puerto Rico, particularly low-income families and marginalized communities who are disproportionately affected by this issue.

2. What are the main contributing factors to housing unaffordability in Puerto Rico?

The main contributing factors to housing unaffordability in Puerto Rico include:

1. High Cost of Construction: The cost of building materials and labor is high in Puerto Rico, making it expensive to construct new homes and buildings. This can result in higher prices for available housing units.

2. Limited Supply of Affordable Housing: There is a shortage of affordable housing in Puerto Rico, particularly in urban areas where demand is highest. This limited supply drives up prices and makes it difficult for people with lower incomes to find affordable options.

3. Lack of Land Availability: The island’s topography and population density make it challenging to find suitable land for new construction, especially in urban areas where there is a high demand for housing.

4. Post-Hurricane Destruction: In recent years, Puerto Rico has been hit by devastating hurricanes that have damaged or destroyed many homes. This has reduced the supply of available housing and increased demand, driving up prices.

5. Foreign Investment: In recent years, there has been an influx of foreign investment in the Puerto Rican real estate market. This can drive up property values and make it more difficult for locals to afford housing.

6. Income Inequality: Puerto Rico has a high level of income inequality, with a significant portion of the population earning low wages. This makes it challenging for many people to afford decent and safe housing.

7. Government Policy: Some government policies, such as subsidies for luxury developments or lack of rent controls, can contribute to rising housing costs and affordability challenges.

8. Lack of Financing Options: Many families in Puerto Rico have difficulty accessing traditional mortgage loans due to strict lending requirements or poor credit histories, making it harder to purchase a home or invest in affordable housing options.

9. Tourism Industry Impact: The tourism industry has brought economic benefits to Puerto Rico but also drives up local living costs, including property prices.

10.Migration Patterns: Many Puerto Ricans have left the island in recent years to seek better economic opportunities elsewhere. This, combined with the high cost of living, has put even more strain on the local housing market.

3. How does the median income in Puerto Rico compare to the cost of housing?

According to recent data from the US Census Bureau, the median household income in Puerto Rico is $20,166. This is significantly lower than the median household income in the United States, which is $61,937.

In terms of housing costs, Puerto Rico has a lower cost of living compared to the United States. However, housing costs still make up a significant portion of most people’s expenses. According to Numbeo, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in San Juan (the capital and largest city) is around $600. This can vary depending on location and type of housing.

Based on these figures, it can be said that housing costs are relatively high compared to the median income in Puerto Rico. Rent alone would take up almost 36% of the median household income, leaving little room for other expenses. This could indicate potential financial strain for many households in Puerto Rico.

Additionally, due to the economic challenges and high poverty rates in Puerto Rico, many families may struggle with even basic housing needs such as having a safe and stable place to live. The federal government declared a state of emergency for affordable housing on the island in 2019 due to concerns about substandard or unsafe living conditions for low-income residents.

Overall, while Puerto Rico has a relatively low cost of living compared to mainland US states, it still remains a challenge for many residents to afford adequate and quality housing within their means.

4. What efforts are being made by the government to address housing affordability in Puerto Rico?

Some efforts being made by the government to address housing affordability in Puerto Rico include:

1. Low-Income Housing Tax Credits: The Puerto Rican government offers tax credits as an incentive for developers to build affordable housing units for low-income families.

2. Vivienda Pública (Public Housing) Program: This program provides financial assistance to eligible low-income families to help them with rental or ownership costs of affordable homes.

3. Government-subsidized Mortgages: The government offers mortgage programs with lower interest rates and down payment assistance for low-income families who may not be able to secure financing from traditional lenders.

4. Rent Control Laws: In 2019, the Puerto Rican government enacted a new rent control law that limits rent increases and protects tenants from unjust evictions.

5. Land Trusts: The creation of land trusts allows for community ownership and stewardship of land, making it more affordable for residents to build homes on.

6. Property Tax Incentives: The government offers tax incentives for homeowners who make improvements on their properties, such as building affordable units or making energy-efficient upgrades.

7. Public-Private Partnerships: The government is partnering with private developers to build affordable housing projects using a combination of public funds and private investments.

8. Hurricane Recovery Programs: After the devastation caused by Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, the Puerto Rican government has allocated funds to rebuild damaged or destroyed homes, including affordable housing units.

9. Vacant/Abandoned Property Revitalization Program (VPRA): This program seeks to rehabilitate abandoned properties and convert them into affordable rental units for low-income families.

10. National Housing Trust Fund (NHTF): Puerto Rico receives funding from the NHTF, which provides grants to states and territories for the production and preservation of affordable housing units for extremely low-income households.

5. Are there any specific areas or regions within Puerto Rico that have higher levels of housing unaffordability?

There are some specific areas within Puerto Rico that have higher levels of housing unaffordability, including:

1. San Juan: As the capital city and most populous municipality in Puerto Rico, San Juan experiences high levels of housing unaffordability due to its popularity as a tourist destination and its urbanization.

2. Bayamón: This metropolitan area is the second-largest in Puerto Rico and has a higher cost of living compared to other regions on the island, leading to more expensive housing prices.

3. Guaynabo: Another highly urbanized and affluent municipality, Guaynabo has some of the most expensive real estate in Puerto Rico.

4. Carolina: Located just east of San Juan, Carolina is another popular tourist destination and residential area that experiences high levels of housing unaffordability.

5. Ponce: While not as expensive as the other municipalities on this list, Ponce is still one of the largest cities in Puerto Rico and has relatively high housing costs compared to other parts of the island.

Overall, urban areas tend to have higher levels of housing unaffordability in Puerto Rico due to their popularity and higher demand for housing. Additionally, areas with stronger economies and higher incomes also tend to have more expensive real estate.

6. How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected the already existing housing affordability issues in Puerto Rico?

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the housing affordability issues in Puerto Rico. Prior to the pandemic, the island was still recovering from Hurricanes Maria and Irma, which destroyed many homes and displaced thousands of residents. This displacement led to an increase in demand for both rental and purchase properties, causing a sharp rise in housing prices.

With the onset of the pandemic, many residents have lost their jobs or faced a reduction in hours, leading to financial strain and making it even more difficult to afford housing. The economic downturn caused by the pandemic has also led to a decrease in tourism, which is a major source of income for many Puerto Ricans. This has directly impacted the demand for short-term rentals, further driving up prices for long-term rentals.

In addition, COVID-19 related restrictions have made it difficult for housing construction projects to continue, causing a shortage of available units. This shortage has pushed rent prices even higher due to limited supply.

As a result of these factors, many Puerto Ricans are struggling to find affordable housing options and are being forced to choose between paying high rents or going without basic necessities. This has also contributed to an increase in homelessness on the island.

Overall, the COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the already existing housing affordability crisis in Puerto Rico and highlights the need for increased efforts towards creating sustainable and affordable housing solutions.

7. What percentage of individuals or families in Puerto Rico are considered “cost-burdened” when it comes to their housing expenses?

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 55.9% of individuals and families in Puerto Rico were considered cost-burdened in 2017, meaning that they spent more than 30% of their income on housing expenses. This is slightly higher than the national average of 53.5%.

8. Are there any programs or initiatives available in Puerto Rico to assist low-income residents with finding affordable housing?

Yes, there are several programs and initiatives available in Puerto Rico to assist low-income residents with finding affordable housing.

1. Housing Choice Voucher Program: Also known as the Section 8 program, this federal program provides rental assistance to low-income families, elderly persons, and persons with disabilities. Participants in the program receive a voucher that allows them to find and lease a unit from a private landlord.

2. Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): This program offers financial assistance to qualified low-income households to help cover their home energy costs. The program also provides weatherization services to improve the energy efficiency of homes.

3. Public Housing Program: This program provides decent and safe rental housing for eligible low-income families, elderly persons, and persons with disabilities. Rent is based on the household’s income, and participants must meet certain eligibility requirements.

4. Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program: This federal program provides annual grants to states, cities, and counties to develop viable communities by providing affordable housing and creating economic opportunities for low- to moderate-income individuals.

5. HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME): This program provides formula grants to states and localities that can be used for various affordable housing activities such as building new housing units or rehabilitating existing ones.

6. PR Front Door Initiative: This initiative aims to increase homeownership opportunities for low- to moderate-income individuals by providing down payment assistance, closing cost assistance, and homebuyer education.

7. Elderly/Disabled Housing Assistance Program: This state-funded program provides financial assistance to eligible elderly or disabled individuals who need help paying rent in privately owned apartments approved by the Puerto Rico Department of Housing.

8. Family Unification Program (FUP): This federally funded program helps reunite families who have been separated due to insufficient housing by providing vouchers for affordable rental housing units.

9. Rural Development Programs: The U.S Department of Agriculture offers programs to help improve the quality of life for rural residents, including affordable housing opportunities through direct and guaranteed loans for single- and multi-family homes.

10. Non-Profit and Faith-Based Programs: There are also various non-profit and faith-based organizations in Puerto Rico that provide affordable housing options, such as Habitat for Humanity and Catholic Charities. These programs often offer financial assistance, education, and resources to help individuals find suitable housing.

9. What impact does gentrification have on housing affordability in Puerto Rico communities?

Gentrification can have a significant impact on housing affordability in Puerto Rico communities. As wealthier individuals and families move into a neighborhood, demand for housing increases, leading to an increase in property values and rental prices. This can make it difficult for low-income residents to afford housing in their own community.

Additionally, gentrification can lead to the displacement of long-time residents who may not be able to afford the rising costs of living in their neighborhood. This further decreases housing affordability and can result in the loss of cultural identity and sense of community for those forced to leave their homes.

Furthermore, as gentrification brings in new businesses and amenities, the cost of goods and services may also increase, making it more expensive for residents to meet their daily needs.

Overall, gentrification risks pushing out low-income residents and contributing to a widening wealth gap within Puerto Rico communities. It is important for policymakers to consider ways to balance revitalization efforts with measures that promote affordable housing options for all residents.

10. How does the lack of affordable housing affect job opportunities and economic growth within Puerto Rico?

The lack of affordable housing in Puerto Rico has a significant impact on job opportunities and economic growth. Here are some specific ways it affects these areas:

1. Limited workforce: The lack of affordable housing makes it difficult for people to move to or stay in Puerto Rico, limiting the available workforce. This can lead to a shortage of workers for certain industries and make it challenging for businesses to find and retain qualified employees.

2. High cost of living: With limited affordable housing options, individuals and families are forced to pay higher rent or mortgage payments, making the cost of living in Puerto Rico very high. This can be a deterrent for individuals looking to relocate or start a business in the area.

3. Inability to attract new businesses: The lack of affordable housing can also make it difficult to attract new businesses to Puerto Rico. Companies may be hesitant to set up operations in an area where their employees will struggle with housing affordability.

4. Low consumer spending: When a significant portion of income is spent on housing costs, there is less money available for other expenses such as food, transportation, and leisure activities. As a result, consumer spending may be lower than it could be, impacting local businesses and the overall economy.

5. Brain drain: The lack of affordable housing can also contribute to brain drain, where educated and skilled workers leave Puerto Rico in search of better job opportunities and more affordable living arrangements elsewhere. This can lead to a loss of talent and expertise that is crucial for economic growth.

In conclusion, the lack of affordable housing in Puerto Rico hinders job opportunities and restricts economic growth by limiting the workforce, increasing the cost of living, deterring businesses from setting up operations, reducing consumer spending, and contributing to brain drain. Solving this issue is crucial for creating a thriving economy in Puerto Rico.

11. Are there any specific industries or sectors that are particularly affected by high housing costs in Puerto Rico?

Yes, the tourism and hospitality industry in Puerto Rico is heavily affected by high housing costs. This is because many workers in this industry often earn lower wages and struggle to afford housing on the island. Additionally, developers often prioritize building luxury vacation homes over affordable housing for local residents, further driving up housing costs in popular tourist destinations. Other industries and sectors that may be particularly impacted by high housing costs in Puerto Rico include agriculture, healthcare, education, and construction.

12. What role do zoning laws and regulations play in addressing or exacerbating housing affordability issues in Puerto Rico?

Zoning laws and regulations can play a significant role in addressing or exacerbating housing affordability issues in Puerto Rico. Zoning laws dictate how land can be used and what types of buildings can be constructed in specific areas, which can greatly impact the availability and cost of housing.

In Puerto Rico, zoning laws and regulations are managed at the municipal level, with each municipality having its own set of rules and restrictions. These laws can create barriers for developers looking to build affordable housing, as they may restrict the density or size of buildings, limit the types of properties allowed (such as multi-family units), or require costly permits and approvals.

Additionally, zoning laws can contribute to gentrification and displacement in certain neighborhoods by allowing for the development of high-end or luxury properties that may drive up property values and push out lower-income residents. This can result in a decrease in affordable housing options for residents who have lived in these neighborhoods for generations.

On the other hand, zoning laws can also be utilized to promote affordable housing by including policies such as inclusionary zoning, which requires developers to include a certain percentage of affordable units in their projects. This helps balance out the development of high-end properties with more affordable options.

Overall, zoning laws must be carefully considered and crafted to address housing affordability issues in Puerto Rico. Collaborative efforts between government agencies, community organizations, and developers are essential to create a balanced and equitable approach to zoning that promotes both economic development and access to affordable housing for all residents.

13. Is there a significant gap between the number of affordable homes needed and those currently available in Puerto Rico?

Yes, the gap between the number of affordable homes needed and those currently available in Puerto Rico is significant. According to a 2020 report by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), there is a shortage of over 65,000 affordable and available rental homes for extremely low-income households in Puerto Rico. This means that for every 100 extremely low-income households in Puerto Rico, there are only 59 affordable and available rental units. This disparity is further exacerbated by the devastation caused by hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, which destroyed or damaged many homes and displaced thousands of residents. The lack of affordable housing options in Puerto Rico has led to a growing homeless population and overcrowding in existing housing units.

14. How do rental prices compare between urban and rural areas within Puerto Rico?

Rental prices for housing in Puerto Rico vary greatly depending on the specific location. Generally, urban areas such as San Juan and Ponce tend to have higher rental prices compared to rural areas. This is due to a higher demand for housing in urban areas, as well as the convenience and amenities that come with living in a city.

In contrast, rental prices in rural areas of Puerto Rico tend to be lower due to a lower demand for housing and a more limited supply. Additionally, rental prices in rural areas may also be affected by factors such as distance from major cities, access to transportation, and availability of services and amenities.

It should also be noted that rental prices can vary significantly within both urban and rural areas based on factors like the specific neighborhood or community, type of housing (apartment vs house), and amenities included.

Overall, while there may be some variation between individual urban and rural areas within Puerto Rico, it is generally safe to say that rental prices are higher in urban areas compared to rural ones.

15. Does homeownership contribute significantly to overall homeownership rates in Puerto Rico?

Yes, homeownership plays a significant role in overall homeownership rates in Puerto Rico. According to data from the United States Census Bureau, the homeownership rate in Puerto Rico was approximately 54.6% in 2019, which is lower than the national average of 65.1%. However, it is still an important factor in determining the overall homeownership rates in Puerto Rico.

16. Are there any unique challenges faced by certain demographics, such as seniors or young people, when it comes to finding affordable housing in Puerto Rico?

Seniors and young people may face unique challenges when it comes to finding affordable housing in Puerto Rico:

1. Seniors: The aging population in Puerto Rico faces challenges in finding affordable housing due to limited income, lack of suitable options and mobility issues. Many seniors live on fixed incomes and may struggle to afford rising housing costs. Additionally, many seniors may have difficulty navigating the rental market or physically accessing properties that are not designed for their needs.

2. Young people: Young people, especially those just starting their careers, may also face challenges in finding affordable housing in Puerto Rico. They may have limited income and face fierce competition for affordable rental units from students or low-income families. Many young people are also burdened with student loan debt, making it difficult to save for a down payment on a home.

In both cases, there is also the challenge of limited options in terms of suitable housing for seniors and young people with specific needs or preferences. This could include accessibility features for seniors with disabilities or proximity to public transportation and amenities for young people without personal vehicles.

Overall, the lack of affordable housing options can contribute to financial strain, stress, and insecurity for seniors and young people in Puerto Rico.

17. How do property taxes impact overall housing costs for residents of Puerto Rico?

Property taxes in Puerto Rico can have a significant impact on overall housing costs for residents. While property tax rates are generally lower in Puerto Rico compared to other states in the US, properties are generally assessed at a higher value.

This means that homeowners in Puerto Rico may face higher property tax bills compared to residents of other states with similar home values. In addition, there are also additional fees and surcharges that may be added to the property tax bill in Puerto Rico, such as municipal taxes and special assessments.

As property taxes are often included in mortgage payments, this can result in higher monthly housing costs for homeowners. Property taxes can also impact the affordability of rental properties, as landlords may pass on any increased property tax costs to tenants through higher rent prices.

Furthermore, high property taxes can discourage potential buyers from purchasing homes in Puerto Rico, leading to a decrease in housing demand and potentially impacting home values.

Overall, property taxes can significantly impact the cost of housing for residents of Puerto Rico and should be considered when budgeting for housing expenses.

18. Is there a correlation between high levels of homelessness and lack of affordable housing options in Puerto Rico?

Yes, there is a strong correlation between high levels of homelessness and lack of affordable housing options in Puerto Rico. The island has been struggling with a severe shortage of affordable housing for many years, and this has contributed to the increase in homelessness. In addition, the devastating impact of natural disasters such as Hurricane Maria in 2017, resulted in thousands of people losing their homes and exacerbating the housing crisis on the island.

According to a report by the Puerto Rican government’s Office of Management and Budget, before Hurricane Maria hit, the island already had a shortage of over 100,000 affordable housing units. This number has only continued to grow since the disaster.

Furthermore, Puerto Rico’s unemployment rate is significantly higher than that of mainland United States, making it difficult for many people to afford adequate housing. The lack of affordable housing options means that many families are forced to live in overcrowded or substandard conditions or become homeless.

The high cost of living on the island also contributes to the lack of affordable housing options. According to a report by UnidosUS (formerly National Council of La Raza), more than half of Puerto Ricans spend more than 30% of their income on housing expenses.

Overall, the lack of affordable housing options in Puerto Rico is a major contributing factor to the high levels of homelessness on the island. Addressing this issue will be crucial in reducing homelessness and improving the overall well-being of Puerto Ricans.

19. How do state laws and policies differ in addressing housing affordability compared to federal policies in Puerto Rico?

State laws and policies in Puerto Rico may vary from federal policies in addressing housing affordability, as each state has the authority to implement their own laws and regulations. Some differences may include:

1. Funding sources – While federal policies often rely on funding from HUD (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development), state laws may use a combination of funding sources, such as state or local taxes, subsidies, grants, or bonds.

2. Rental assistance programs – Federal programs such as Section 8 vouchers and public housing are designed to assist low-income individuals with affordable housing options. In Puerto Rico, some states have implemented similar rental assistance programs at the state level.

3. Rent control – Federal policies do not include rent control measures, but some states in Puerto Rico have implemented rent control laws to limit rent increases and prevent displacement of low-income residents.

4. Land use and zoning regulations – Each state has its own land use and zoning regulations that affect the availability and cost of housing. Some states have implemented inclusionary zoning ordinances that require developers to provide a certain percentage of affordable units in new developments.

5. Tax incentives for affordable housing – States may offer tax incentives for developers to build affordable housing units, which can help offset the high costs associated with constructing affordable housing.

6. Affordable housing trust funds – Several states have established affordable housing trust funds to support the development of affordable housing through various funding mechanisms.

7. Tenant protections – While federal laws such as the Fair Housing Act protect tenants from discrimination, some states have additional tenant protection measures in place, such as eviction protections or requiring landlords to provide a valid reason for evictions.

It’s important to note that these differences can also vary within a state, as local municipalities may have their own set of laws and policies related to housing affordability. Overall, addressing housing affordability is a complex issue that requires collaboration between federal, state, and local governments to effectively address it in Puerto Rico.

20. What steps can be taken at the state level to make housing more affordable for residents of Puerto Rico without putting strain on local economies?

1. Create affordable housing initiatives: States can create initiatives that provide financial assistance or incentives to developers to build affordable housing units. This could include tax breaks, grants, or low-interest loans.

2. Increase funding for public housing: State governments can allocate more funding towards the redevelopment and maintenance of public housing units, making them more affordable for low-income residents.

3. Encourage mixed-income housing developments: States can incentivize developers to include a mix of market-rate and affordable housing units in their developments. This will help integrate low-income residents into higher-income areas and create more diverse communities.

4. Implement rent control measures: Rent control policies can help stabilize rental prices and make it more affordable for low-income individuals and families to find decent housing options.

5. Expand voucher programs: States can expand voucher programs such as Section 8 to provide rental assistance to low-income residents. This would allow them to access a wider range of housing options within their budget.

6. Increase minimum wage: Raising the minimum wage can give working-class individuals and families more financial stability and allow them to afford better-quality housing options.

7. Incentivize employers to provide workforce housing: States can offer tax incentives or subsidies to employers who provide workforce housing for their employees, ensuring that essential workers have access to safe and affordable homes near their workplaces.

8. Revitalize blighted properties for affordable housing: State governments can work with local communities and non-profit organizations to convert vacant properties into affordable housing units.

9. Partner with non-profit organizations: States can collaborate with non-profit organizations that specialize in providing affordable housing solutions, leveraging their expertise and resources towards meeting the needs of low-income residents.

10. Provide education on financial literacy: Many people struggle with managing their finances effectively, which can hinder their ability to save for a down payment or qualify for a mortgage loan. State governments could offer programs on financial literacy to help residents make informed decisions about their housing options.

11. Increase availability of affordable mortgage loans: States can work with banks and other financial institutions to provide more accessible and affordable mortgage loans for low-income individuals and families.

12. Offer incentives for landlords to keep rent prices reasonable: States can incentivize landlords to keep rental prices affordable by offering tax breaks or subsidies, making it more financially feasible for them to offer lower rents.

13. Encourage the use of alternative housing models: Innovative solutions such as co-housing, micro-apartments, or tiny homes can provide more cost-effective housing options for low-income residents. State governments could offer incentives for developers to implement these alternatives.

14. Develop sustainable communities: Building energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly homes can reduce utility costs and make housing more affordable in the long run.

15. Address zoning regulations that limit affordable housing: Some states have strict zoning regulations that restrict the development of multi-family or low-income housing units in desirable neighborhoods. State governments could review and revise these regulations to promote more inclusive housing opportunities.

16. Implement anti-discrimination laws: Ensuring equal access to housing by implementing policies that combat discrimination based on race, income level, family status, or any other protected classes can prevent exclusionary practices that lead to high-cost segregated communities.

17. Enhance public transportation systems: Improving public transportation options can reduce living expenses by allowing residents without cars to save money on transportation costs and live further away from city centers where rents tend to be higher.

18. Provide assistance for homeowners facing foreclosure: States could offer counseling services and assistance programs for homeowners at risk of losing their homes due to foreclosure, helping them stay in their homes affordably while they get back on their feet financially.

19. Consider rent-to-own programs: These initiatives allow tenants to pay rent towards owning a property over a period of time, providing an alternative path to homeownership for those who may not easily qualify for traditional mortgages.

20. Promote community land trusts: Community land trusts are non-profit organizations that acquire and hold land for the purpose of creating affordable housing. States can support these organizations through funding, tax incentives, or technical assistance to help expand their impact.