What is middle housing and why is it needed?

Housing needs are unique to every person and family. Some families need more room for grandparents and children that live under the same roof – and as multiple adults bring in active income, they can afford a more expensive home. Other people live independently and would prefer a smaller home that comes with a lower monthly note. Because everyone’s situation is different, a healthy housing market has homes available for sale of all sizes and price points.

But that’s not really what the market looks like right now in many American cities. New neighborhoods are being built in suburban communities, and the footprints tend to be large. In city centers, houses are being bought and renovated at a premium, pricing out the average resident. Modest, affordable houses are not being built or maintained.

That goes against what most Americans say they want. According to a Zillow survey, the majority of individuals would prefer that more affordable housing be built in their neighborhoods. In urban areas, that often requires that we get creative with how we use what little land is available. One of the best options is to build middle housing to create strategic density. But what does that mean and who does it serve?

What is middle housing?

Throughout Memphis, you might see housing blocked together with space for three to four families. It can be in the form of a duplex, triplex, an old home converted to accommodate many people or detached multi-story homes in a single neighborhood. This type of housing is called middle housing because it’s not quite single-family housing, but it’s also not a large, multifamily complex. Hence, middle housing!

Middle housing went out of fashion in cities across the country, including Memphis. Zoning restrictions kept people from converting larger single family units into duplexes in an effort to preserve neighborhoods. But in the process, this kept people from being able to build townhomes, duplexes and other multifamily housing options that make sense when there isn’t a lot of land available.

Why is it important to have middle housing?

The main benefit of middle housing is affordability. “We need a greater mix of housing types to meet differing income and generational needs,” said Debra Bassert of the National Association of Home Builders. “This is where missing middle housing can change the conversation.”

Higher-end properties have a larger price tag, which makes it nearly impossible for first-time homebuyers to afford. Apartments or condos may be more affordable, but may not have the space for a family and may not provide access to schools or other amenities that a family needs. Middle housing can provide space, affordability and neighborhood desirability.

According to the Zillow research results mentioned above, there are many positive factors of middle housing. A burgeoning neighborhood will attract more amenities. Neighborhoods bring residents, and residents bring commerce. This opens up neighborhoods to the live/work model. In this type of arrangement, restaurants, office buildings and retail stores open up within walking distance of neighborhood centers.

A sense of community is important for many. In developments like the live/work model, duplexes and triplexes, there is a higher likelihood of interaction and relationship building with neighbors. Getting to know the individuals in your neighborhood provides you with the opportunity to learn about other cultures and viewpoints. The sense of community that comes with knowing and trusting your neighbors is invaluable.

Middle housing can fill a housing gap for families and individuals looking to purchase a home. If you’d like to learn more about middle housing, the team at United Housing can help! Give us a call today at 901-272-1122.