Attainable Housing: Strengthening Our Community Together
Why It Matters
Attainable Housing gives our essential workers, young families, seniors, and local residents a chance to live and thrive in the communities they serve. It includes well-designed, quality-built homes like duplexes, townhomes, and accessory dwelling units that blend seamlessly into existing neighborhoods.
Common Concerns & Honest Answers
What type of families would occupy these homes?
This is a common question and perhaps the most misunderstood. The people who rely on attainable housing are frequently first-time home buyers working in essential roles—Teachers, Police, Healthcare Workers, Veterans, First Responders, and Service Staff.
Will it hurt property values?
No. Studies show that well-planned, attainable housing does not decrease property values. In fact, it can help maintain stability and attract investment, which can build value.
Will crime increase?
No. The idea that attainable housing increases crime is a myth. In fact, stable, attainable housing supports safer, healthier communities.
What about traffic and parking?
These concerns are valid. That’s why new housing developments often include planning for transit, walkability, and parking solutions.
Will it change our area’s character?
Attainable housing can be built to match the look and feel of your community. It offers diversity in housing types without sacrificing aesthetics. For example, the new homes in Maple City add charm and character with the flowers and vegetable gardens.
What is the difference between Affordable and Attainable Housing?
Affordable housing refers to housing units made affordable to individuals and families with low to moderate incomes, often through government interventions such as subsidies, tax credits, or direct funding.
Attainable housing, on the other hand, targets middle-income households who may not qualify for traditional housing assistance but still struggle with housing affordability due to market conditions. This concept focuses on providing housing options for Police, Teachers, First Responders, Veterans, Healthcare Workers, and Service Industry Staff, in most cases purchasing their first home.
Will the Housing development have a negative Environmental Impact?
No. The development is designed with the environment in mind. There is a concerted effort to minimize the number of trees removed. Same with ground cover and erosion protection.
Why We Need It
- Teachers, Firefighters, Healthcare Workers, and Service Industry Staff deserve to live where they work.
- Young adults and seniors need options that suit their stage of life.
- Diverse housing makes for a vibrant, resilient, and inclusive community.
- At the start, families need a place to work, live, and raise their children who will also be able to someday work in the community.
A Community Where We All Belong
Attainable housing isn’t about outsiders—it’s about us: our kids, our aging parents, and our neighbors. Let’s ensure our community is welcoming, inclusive, and prepared for the future.
Strong communities provide homes for everyone who contributes to them.
Let’s build that future together.
How Can You Help?
- Start by spreading the word—talk to your friends, neighbors, business owners, and local officials. Share this newsletter with organizations you’re connected to, like your Chamber of Commerce, clubs, or neighborhood groups.
- Do you own land that might be suitable for conservation or community use? We’d love to hear from you—whether you’re open to donating or selling it to a local 501(c)(3), your contribution could make a lasting impact.
- If you haven’t already, subscribe to our newsletter to stay in the loop—there’s a sign-up link right at the bottom of our homepage. And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for regular updates and stories from the region.
- Looking for hands-on ways to get involved? Consider making a donation or volunteering with us. Every bit of support helps us protect and enhance the gateway communities of the Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Only together can we make a real difference.