Asheville Faces Housing Crisis: Community Leaders Advocate for Affordable Solutions

Asheville Weighs the Future of Affordable Housing

In the heart of Asheville, a lively discussion about affordable housing is taking center stage. Recently, Matt Allen from the Land of the Sky Association of REALTORS® (LOTSAR) expressed strong support for amending the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) at a public hearing. His aim was to change certain regulations revolving around cottage communities and construction on flag lots.

However, the response from the Asheville City Council wasn’t quite what Allen and the LOTSAR team were hoping for. They were disappointed to see the amendments put on hold, especially since LOTSAR has been deeply invested in advocating for affordable housing options in the region.

Community Focus

Nick Hinton, the current president of LOTSAR and a member of the Hinton Realty Group, shared his insights on the situation. He noted that in his role as a REALTOR®, he has come to realize that real estate is not just about selling houses. “It’s a community endeavor,” he said. Many people often picture REALTORS® focused solely on selling exorbitantly priced homes, but Hinton explained that they frequently assist clients across all income levels in finding a place to call home.

“On a daily basis, we’re getting people into housing,” he remarked, highlighting the commitment of real estate professionals to help individuals find affordable living solutions. The team at LOTSAR takes a balanced approach, working tirelessly to present factual data rather than being swayed by personal opinions. Hinton reminisced about his visits to Raleigh where discussions with Senators from vastly different political perspectives still converged on the universal agreement that affordable housing is a pressing issue.

Bringing Solutions to the Table

The challenge, Hinton emphasized, goes beyond just acknowledging the shortage of affordable housing; it’s about putting plans into action. One of LOTSAR’s notable achievements includes the organization of Housing Mobility Workshops. These workshops convene lenders and nonprofit representatives, enabling prospective homeowners to craft personalized plans for achieving homeownership.

Additionally, LOTSAR has joined forces with local governmental bodies to create a comprehensive resource called “Affordable WNC”. This biannual guide is akin to a ‘Yellow Pages’ for people seeking low-income housing. It not only categorizes various housing development options but also provides contacts for assistance with issues like eviction or Fair Housing Act violations.

Collaborating for a Better Future

Furthermore, LOTSAR has played a fundamental role in helping Asheville shape its affordable housing plan and supports ongoing public policy analysis through a group known as Thrive AVL. With aid from LOTSAR and other organizations, Thrive AVL has been instrumental in generating reports that shed light on the imbalances found in the local housing market.

The discussion also ventured into the realm of destination stewardship, which prioritizes the conservation of Asheville’s natural and historical assets for both residents and visitors alike. One of LOTSAR’s significant undertakings includes efforts to promote the acceptance of federal rental assistance vouchers, made possible via a Housing Opportunity Grant.

Facing Complex Challenges

When it comes to the controversial topic of short-term rentals (STRs), Hinton described the scenario as “complicated.” He understands that individuals possess valid concerns on both sides. However, numerous studies indicate that when regulated sensibly, STRs might actually enhance the local economy and housing supply.

Looking ahead, Hinton emphasizes the need to collaborate with the community and local government to create a feasible plan that addresses everyone’s needs. According to him, “It’s important for us to just present data and facts instead of opinions.”

Overcoming the Financial Hurdles

Despite the organizations’ best efforts, Hinton acknowledges that the challenge of affordable housing is compounded by the high cost of land in Asheville. He noted that, “Dirt here is expensive,” referring to land prices that can exceed $500,000 an acre in desirable neighborhoods.

Local leaders have long advocated for housing developments near transportation hubs, jobs, and essential services, aiming to mitigate the high cost of living. Unfortunately, the land best suited for such developments is often the most coveted real estate.

Green Building and Sustainability

On the topic of sustainability, Hinton believes in the merits of green building practices. He stated, “Sustainable housing is always a good idea,” emphasizing the importance of constructing energy-efficient homes. Still, he pointed out the dilemma faced by low-income families who often can’t afford the latest eco-friendly technologies, hence the need for balanced solutions.

As Asheville navigates this intricate landscape of housing availability and affordability, the conversations led by organizations like LOTSAR will play a crucial role in shaping a future that serves the entire community.