Wednesday, September 30, 2020

Affordable Housing in Loveland Colorado - Garages

 

Affordable housing is an issue everywhere.  In Loveland, Colorado the issue is the same.  Where can I find affordable housing that meets my needs? 

Rethinking space

In urban areas where space is at a premium, the idea of converting garages into living space is taking off.   Would you consider having a stranger move into your garage? Or, would you set up your home in someone else's garage?  More and more people are saying "YES".  

According to new research by Harvard University, almost 40 million Americans "live in housing they cannot afford."  Homeownership has gone down and rental prices keep going up, meaning that millions of residents are forced to pay more than they reasonably should.

Living in someone's garage could help some of those 40 million American's live within their budget or gain freedom from living with mom and dad.  This idea works especially well in college communities such as Northern Colorado.   Rent a garage out to a college student.  

These garage flats could represent a lot more than the opportunity for an extra stream of income for homeowners. Proponents say they could help remedy cities’ housing problems, and even fight homelessness.  

Advantages To A Garage Home

This type of housing won't change the look of the neighborhood and will minimize the land being utilized for new construction, thus keeping our farm ground for food.  

This type of housing could cut down on the homeless population and help those individuals gain respect for themselves and their community.

Who Lives In A Garage

 Younger adults, older relatives who need care, Airbnb guests. And this shift is not limited to converted garages. Backyard cottages, repurposed garden shacks, and tiny homes – they’re all known as ADUs, or accessory dwelling units. 

Cost

Because a garage already has a foundation, walls, and a roof, using the existing structure typically costs around half what you would spend for an all-new addition.  

As the demand for affordable housing becomes a greater need, some cities have eased up on the planning laws.  Contact Larimer Counties planning office (970-498-7683) to see if this is a possibility for your home. 

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