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

The housing affordability crisis has had a significant impact on residents in Utah, particularly low-income families and individuals. Here are some specific ways that residents have been affected:

1. Increasing cost of rent: The cost of renting a home in Utah has risen significantly in recent years, making it difficult for many people to find affordable housing. According to data from Zillow, the median rent in Utah has increased by nearly 40% since 2010.

2. Limited access to homeownership: With rising housing prices, many people are unable to afford homes in Utah’s expensive real estate market. This has led to a decrease in homeownership rates, especially among younger generations.

3. Struggle for low-income households: Low-income families and individuals often bear the brunt of the housing affordability crisis as they are more likely to face financial challenges and struggle to keep up with rising costs of housing.

4. Forced to live in inadequate conditions: Many residents are forced to live in overcrowded or substandard housing due to their inability to find affordable options. This can lead to health and safety concerns for these individuals and their families.

5. Displacement and gentrification: As rents continue to rise, some long-time residents may be forced out of their neighborhoods due to increasing property values and development projects, leading to displacement and gentrification.

6. Commute times and transportation costs: As more affordable housing options move further away from job centers, residents may be forced into longer commutes, resulting in increased transportation costs and decreased quality of life.

7. Impact on mental health: Housing affordability concerns can also have an emotional toll on residents as they feel stressed, anxious, or worried about finding a stable place to live.

Overall, the housing affordability crisis makes it extremely difficult for low- and middle-income individuals and families to find stable and affordable housing in Utah, impacting their overall well-being and contributing towards economic inequality within the state.

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

Several factors contribute to housing unaffordability in Utah, including:

1. Low housing supply: There is a shortage of available housing units in Utah, particularly in urban areas where demand is higher. This leads to bidding wars and drives up the prices of homes.

2. Strong economy and job growth: Utah has a booming economy with job growth outpacing the national average. This has led to an influx of people moving to the state, increasing demand for housing.

3. Population growth: Utah is one of the fastest growing states in the country, and its population is projected to continue growing. This puts pressure on the housing market and drives up prices.

4. Land use restrictions: Land use restrictions and strict zoning laws can limit the amount of available land for development, driving up the cost of housing.

5. Rising construction costs: The cost of building new homes has risen substantially over the years due to increased material and labor costs. These costs are often passed on to home buyers, making new homes less affordable.

6. High land and property taxes: Property taxes in Utah are among the highest in the nation, making homeownership more expensive.

7. Student debt: Many young adults in Utah are burdened with student loan debt, which can make it difficult for them to save money for a down payment on a home or afford high monthly mortgage payments.

8. Limited affordable housing options: There is a lack of affordable housing options in many parts of Utah, particularly for low-income families or individuals.

9. Income inequality: While average wages have been increasing in Utah, they have not kept pace with rising housing costs, making it difficult for lower-income households to afford decent housing.

10. Short-term rentals: The rise of short-term rental platforms like Airbnb has reduced the number of long-term rental units available on the market, driving up rent prices and making it harder for renters to save for homeownership.

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

According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income in Utah was $68,358 in 2020. In comparison, the median home value in Utah was $414,800 as of September 2021.

This suggests that the median income in Utah is slightly lower than the cost of housing. However, it is important to note that the cost of housing varies greatly depending on location within the state. In some areas, such as Salt Lake City and Park City, housing prices may be significantly higher than in other parts of the state.

Additionally, factors such as interest rates and mortgage options can also impact the affordability of housing for individuals and families with different income levels.

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

There are multiple efforts being made by the government to address housing affordability in Utah. These include:

1. Affordable Housing Programs: The Utah Housing Corporation (UHC) and the Department of Workforce Services offer affordable housing programs that assist low-income individuals and families in finding affordable rental and homeownership options.

2. Tax Incentives: The state of Utah offers various tax incentives to developers who build affordable housing units. These incentives can include tax credits, exemptions, or deductions.

3. Local Government Initiatives: Many cities and towns across the state have developed their own initiatives to encourage the development of affordable housing within their communities. This can include zoning changes, density bonuses, and partnerships with nonprofits or private developers.

4. Funding for Affordable Housing Development: The State Legislature has allocated funds for affordable housing development through grants, loans, and other programs. In 2020 alone, $20 million was allocated for affordable housing projects.

5. Supportive Housing Programs: The Department of Workforce Services also offers supportive housing programs that provide rental assistance to individuals with disabilities or special needs who would not otherwise be able to afford stable housing.

6. Down Payment Assistance: Several agencies in Utah offer down payment assistance programs aimed at helping low-to-moderate income individuals and families purchase a home. These programs may offer grants or low-interest loans to assist with down payments and closing costs.

7. Collaboration with Private Sector: Many private companies and organizations in Utah are partnering with the government to create innovative solutions for addressing affordable housing issues in the state.

Overall, these efforts demonstrate a commitment from both state and local governments in Utah to address the issue of housing affordability and provide more opportunities for low-income individuals and families to find stable, affordable homes.

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

There are several areas in Utah that have higher levels of housing unaffordability, including:

1. Salt Lake City: As the largest city in Utah, Salt Lake City has a high demand for housing, resulting in high prices and low affordability.

2. Park City: With its location near popular ski resorts and its reputation as a luxury destination, Park City has some of the most expensive housing in the state.

3. Moab: Another popular tourist destination, Moab has seen an increase in home prices due to the rise of short-term vacation rentals and second homes.

4. St. George: This fast-growing city in southern Utah has seen a surge in population, leading to higher demand for housing and rising prices.

5. Summit County: Located near ski resorts and outdoor recreation areas, Summit County has a high cost of living and limited affordable housing options.

6. Washington County: Similar to St. George, Washington County is experiencing rapid population growth and a shortage of affordable housing.

7. Davis and Weber Counties: These counties north of Salt Lake City have become more expensive due to their proximity to job opportunities and amenities offered by the state’s capital.

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

The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated the existing housing affordability issues in Utah. This is due to a combination of factors such as job losses, reduced income, and increased demand for housing.

1. Job losses and reduced income: The pandemic has caused widespread job losses and reduced income for many individuals, making it difficult for them to afford housing. This is especially true for low-income families who were already struggling to make ends meet before the pandemic. With their incomes reduced or eliminated, it has become even more challenging for them to keep up with rising housing costs.

2. Increased demand for housing: The pandemic has also resulted in an increase in demand for housing in Utah. Many people have been moving out of densely populated areas such as cities and into suburban or rural areas due to concerns about the virus. This has led to a surge in the demand for single-family homes, driving up prices and making it harder for low-income families to afford housing.

3. Evictions and foreclosures: The economic impact of the pandemic has left many renters unable to pay their rent and homeowners struggling to make mortgage payments. As a result, there has been an increase in evictions and foreclosures, which can lead to even more affordable housing being taken off the market.

4. Limited affordable housing supply: Even before the pandemic, there was a shortage of affordable housing options in Utah. With the current economic downturn, construction of new affordable housing projects has slowed down, further limiting the availability of affordable homes.

5. Disproportionate impact on marginalized communities: The pandemic has disproportionately affected marginalized communities such as minorities, immigrants, and those with disabilities who are already more likely to face housing affordability challenges. These groups may be at a higher risk of losing their homes during this crisis.

In summary, the COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the already existing housing affordability crisis in Utah by creating additional financial strain on households, increasing demand for housing, and limiting the supply of affordable homes. It has also disproportionately impacted marginalized communities, exacerbating existing inequalities.

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

According to a 2019 report by the National Low Income Housing Coalition, 30% of households in Utah are considered “cost-burdened” when it comes to their housing expenses. This means that they spend more than 30% of their income on housing costs. Additionally, 15% of households in Utah are considered “severely cost-burdened,” meaning they spend more than 50% of their income on housing expenses.

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

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

1. Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program: This federal program, administered by the local public housing authority (PHA), provides rental assistance to eligible low-income individuals and families. The PHA pays a portion of the rent directly to the landlord, while the tenant is responsible for paying the remaining portion. Eligibility is based on income and household size, and applicants may be placed on a waitlist due to high demand.

2. Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Program: This program provides tax incentives for developers who build or renovate affordable housing units that are reserved for low-income tenants. These developments are typically managed by private organizations or non-profit agencies.

3. UtahHousing Connect: This online platform connects renters with affordable housing options throughout the state. Users can search for available units, access rental assistance resources, and connect with property managers.

4. Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): Administered by the Department of Workforce Services, LIHEAP provides financial assistance to help eligible low-income households pay their heating and cooling bills.

5. Affordable Housing Development Grants: The Utah Housing Corporation offers grants to developers who build or renovate affordable housing units in rural areas or targeted urban neighborhoods.

6. Mortgage Assistance Programs: The Utah Housing Corporation also offers various mortgage assistance programs such as Down Payment Assistance, FirstHome loan program, and other homebuyer education and counseling services.

7. Community Action Agencies: These agencies provide various services to assist low-income individuals and families with accessing affordable housing, such as rental assistance, emergency shelter vouchers, and information about available resources.

8. Supportive Housing Programs: There are various supportive housing programs in Utah that offer subsidized rent for individuals facing homelessness or those with disabilities.

Overall, these programs and initiatives aim to increase access to safe and affordable housing for low-income individuals and families in Utah.

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

Gentrification can have a significant impact on housing affordability in Utah communities. As wealthier residents move into gentrified areas, demand for housing increases and drives up property values and rents. This can make it more difficult for low-income and working-class residents to afford housing in these communities.

Furthermore, the process of gentrification often involves renovating or replacing older, more affordable housing with newer, more expensive units. This contributes to the overall increase in property values and rents, making housing less affordable for existing residents.

Additionally, as neighborhoods become more desirable due to gentrification, developers may be incentivized to focus on building higher-end properties rather than affordable housing. This further limits the options for low-income individuals and families looking for affordable housing in these communities.

Overall, gentrification can lead to displacement of long-term residents who can no longer afford to live in their neighborhood. This not only has negative impacts on those individuals and families but also on the social fabric and diversity of a community.

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

The lack of affordable housing in Utah can have a significant impact on job opportunities and economic growth. Here are some ways in which it can affect the state:

1. Reduced Attraction for Workers: For businesses to thrive, they need a skilled and reliable workforce. If affordable housing is not available, it becomes difficult to attract workers to the state. This could lead to a shortage of skilled labor and potential challenges for businesses looking to expand or relocate to Utah.

2. Increased Cost of Living: The lack of affordable housing often means that people must spend a larger portion of their income on housing, leaving less money for other expenses. This increased cost of living can make it difficult for individuals to save money, invest in education, or start businesses – all important drivers of economic growth.

3. High Employee Turnover: When employees cannot find decent and affordable housing near their workplace; they may have long commutes or choose to move elsewhere. This high employee turnover could result in higher operational costs for businesses as they constantly have to recruit and train new staff.

4. Difficulty Attracting Skilled Professionals: The lack of available affordable housing can also make it challenging for employers to recruit highly-skilled professionals from out-of-state. With fewer options for affordable housing, these individuals might choose to work elsewhere where there is more opportunity.

5. Stifled Entrepreneurship: Entrepreneurs often rely on access to affordable office space and funding opportunities when starting new ventures. However, if affordable housing isn’t readily available, many entrepreneurs may struggle with the financial burden of starting a business in Utah.

6. Decrease in Consumer Spending: When people are spending more on housing costs, they tend to have less disposable income available for consumer spending. This decrease in consumer spending could ultimately impact local businesses and their ability to grow and create jobs.

7.Commitment Challenges from Out-of-State Employees: Companies hiring employees from out-of-state frequently face difficulty with retaining these hires due to the high costs of renting or owning a home. This could make it challenging for Utah businesses to retain top talent and maintain a stable workforce, impacting their growth potential.

In conclusion, the lack of affordable housing in Utah can have a negative ripple effect on job opportunities and economic growth. It is crucial for policymakers and business leaders to address this issue and work towards finding affordable housing solutions to support the state’s economy.

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

High housing costs in Utah can affect industries and sectors that rely on attracting and retaining skilled or educated workers to the state. This includes technology, healthcare, and education industries, as well as tourism and outdoor recreation industries where seasonal or low-wage workers may struggle to find affordable housing options. Additionally, high housing costs can also impact businesses that require a significant amount of physical space, such as manufacturing or warehousing companies. These businesses may face difficulties in finding affordable commercial properties for their operations.

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

Zoning laws and regulations play a significant role in addressing and exacerbating housing affordability issues in Utah. Zoning laws dictate how land can be used and what types of buildings can be constructed on it, which has a direct impact on the availability and cost of housing.

One way in which zoning laws can address housing affordability is through the creation of affordable housing zones. These are designated areas where developers are required to set aside a certain percentage of units as affordable for low-income individuals or families. This helps to increase the supply of affordable housing in an area and promote economic diversity.

However, zoning laws can also contribute to exacerbating housing affordability issues in several ways:

1. Restrictive zoning: Many cities in Utah have strict zoning laws that only allow for single-family homes to be built in certain areas, limiting the options for more affordable multi-family or mixed-use developments. This can make it difficult for low-income or middle-class families to find affordable options near job opportunities, good schools, and other amenities.

2. Exclusionary zoning: Some zoning laws may intentionally exclude affordable housing options from certain neighborhoods, which contributes to economic segregation and limits access to opportunity.

3. Height and density restrictions: Zoning laws that restrict building heights and densities can make it more expensive for developers to build multi-unit structures, resulting in higher rents or sale prices for these units.

4. Parking requirements: In many cities, there are minimum parking requirements included in zoning laws that mandate a certain number of parking spaces per unit. This adds significant costs to development projects, making it harder to create more affordable units.

5. Lengthy approval processes: The lengthy approval process required by some zoning regulations can add additional costs and time delays for developers, making it less financially feasible to build affordable housing.

In order to effectively address housing affordability issues in Utah, it is important for zoning laws and regulations to be carefully evaluated and updated as needed. One approach is to promote more flexible zoning regulations that allow for a mix of housing types and densities, as well as streamline the approval process for development projects. This can help increase the supply of affordable housing options and create more diverse and inclusive communities.

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

There is a significant gap between the number of affordable homes needed and those currently available in Utah. According to the 2018 State of the Nation’s Housing report by the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University, there is a shortage of nearly 50,000 affordable rental homes for extremely low-income households (earning less than 30% of the area median income) in Utah. This means that many low-income families are struggling to find housing options that are within their budget, leading to higher rates of homelessness and housing instability. Additionally, as home prices and rents continue to rise, middle-income households are also finding it increasingly difficult to afford housing in Utah. Therefore, there is a significant gap between the number of affordable homes needed and those currently available across various income levels in the state.

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

It is difficult to provide a general comparison of rental prices between urban and rural areas within Utah as it can vary greatly depending on location and specific factors such as demand, amenities, and property type. However, in general, rental prices tend to be higher in urban areas due to the higher cost of living and higher demand for housing. In 2019, the median monthly rent in Salt Lake City was $1,091 compared to the median rent of $809 in rural Utah.

15. Does homeownership contribute significantly to overall homeownership rates in Utah?

Yes, homeownership contributes significantly to overall homeownership rates in Utah. According to data from the United States Census Bureau, the homeownership rate in Utah was 70.4% in 2019, which is higher than the national average of 64.8%. This indicates that a large majority of households in Utah are homeowners. Homeownership has been consistently high in Utah, and it is one of the primary reasons for the state’s overall high homeownership rate.

In addition, Utah has a strong culture and tradition of homeownership, with many families viewing owning a home as an important part of achieving the American Dream. The state also has favorable economic conditions, such as low unemployment rates and a diverse economy, which make it easier for residents to afford and maintain homes.

Furthermore, there are various initiatives and programs in place in Utah that promote and support homeownership. These include down payment assistance programs, affordable housing options, and tax incentives for first-time homebuyers.

Overall, while there are many factors that contribute to overall homeownership rates in Utah, homeownership itself plays a significant role and is highly valued by residents of the state.

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

Seniors in Utah may face challenges finding affordable housing due to limited fixed incomes and increasing rental prices. As individuals age, they may also have a decreased ability to work and therefore have less income to put towards housing costs. Additionally, seniors may face difficulties finding appropriate housing that meets their specific needs, such as accessibility features or proximity to medical facilities.

Young people in Utah, particularly recent graduates or low-income individuals starting their careers, may also struggle with finding affordable housing due to high rental prices and stiff competition for limited available units. Many young people also have student debt that can impact their ability to save for a down payment on a house or afford rent without roommates.

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

Property taxes are an important component of overall housing costs for residents of Utah. They are typically calculated based on the assessed value of a property and are used to fund various local government services such as schools, public safety, infrastructure, and other essential services.

In Utah, property taxes can vary depending on the county or municipality in which the property is located. However, they are generally lower compared to other states in the US, with an average effective tax rate of 0.68%. This means that for every $100 of assessed value, homeowners can expect to pay about $0.68 in property taxes.

Despite being relatively low, property taxes still make up a significant portion of overall housing costs for residents of Utah. For homeowners, these taxes are usually included in their monthly mortgage payments as part of escrow fees. Renters also indirectly contribute to property taxes through their rental payments, as landlords often factor in these costs when determining rent prices.

Furthermore, increasing property values can result in higher assessments and ultimately lead to higher property tax bills for homeowners. This can be particularly burdensome for low-income households who may struggle to keep up with rising housing costs.

On the other hand, seniors and disabled residents may be eligible for exemptions or credits that can help reduce their property tax burden.

In summary, while relatively low compared to other states, property taxes still play a significant role in overall housing costs for residents of Utah and should be carefully considered by both homeowners and renters when budgeting for housing expenses.

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

Yes, there is a correlation between high levels of homelessness and lack of affordable housing options in Utah. Affordable housing refers to housing that costs no more than 30% of a household’s income, and when this type of housing is lacking, it can lead to individuals and families becoming homeless. In fact, the National Low Income Housing Coalition’s Out of Reach report found that Utah has a shortage of 52,652 affordable rental homes for individuals and families earning below the poverty level.

As a result, many people in Utah are forced to spend more than 30% of their income on rent, leaving them with limited funds for other necessities such as food, healthcare, and transportation. This can push individuals and families into homelessness when they are unable to afford the high cost of living.

Moreover, factors such as low wages and a lack of available social services can also contribute to both the lack of affordable housing options and high levels of homelessness in Utah. Without access to affordable housing and supportive services, many people may struggle to maintain stable housing arrangements.

Overall, it is clear that there is a strong connection between the lack of affordable housing options and high levels of homelessness in Utah. Addressing the issue of affordable housing can help mitigate homelessness in the state.

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

State laws and policies related to housing affordability in Utah are generally focused on providing financial assistance, incentives, and regulatory tools to address the issue. For example, the state has a housing trust fund that provides funding for affordable housing developments, as well as tax credits and other financial incentives for developers who build affordable units.

In addition, several cities in Utah have adopted inclusionary zoning ordinances, which require a certain percentage of new developments to include affordable units. The state also has regulations around rent control, with local governments having the ability to adopt rent control measures if approved by a majority of voters.

On the other hand, federal policies related to housing affordability in Utah focus more on providing funding for low-income households through programs such as Section 8 vouchers and public housing. The federal government also sets guidelines for minimum standards in rental housing through programs like Section 8 inspections.

Compared to federal policies, state laws and policies in Utah tend to be more focused on providing financial support and incentives to encourage the development of affordable housing, rather than direct assistance or regulation of rental prices.

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

1. Increase funding for affordable housing programs: State governments can allocate more resources towards affordable housing programs such as the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program, Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program, and other rental assistance programs. This will help to increase the supply of affordable housing units and make them more accessible to low-income residents.

2. Encourage inclusionary zoning policies: Inclusionary zoning is a policy that requires developers to set aside a certain percentage of new housing units for low- and moderate-income residents. States can incentivize or mandate this policy to ensure a more diverse mix of housing options in different communities.

3. Streamline regulatory processes: State governments can work with local municipalities to streamline regulatory processes for building new housing developments. This would reduce construction costs and make it easier for developers to build more affordable housing units.

4. Support affordable development initiatives: States can provide financial support and incentives for organizations or developers who are committed to building affordable housing units. This could include tax breaks, grants, or loans specifically targeted towards affordable housing projects.

5. Explore alternative financing options: States can explore alternative financing options such as community land trusts, public-private partnerships, or microloans to help fund the construction or renovation of existing affordable housing units.

6. Develop mixed-income communities: Instead of concentrating low-income individuals in specific neighborhoods, states can promote the development of mixed-income communities where people from all income groups can live together. This helps break down barriers and promotes social equity while also creating more opportunities for low-income residents to access services and amenities in higher-income areas.

7. Provide rental assistance programs: In addition to increasing funding for rental assistance programs, states can also create new programs that target specific populations such as families with children, seniors, or individuals with disabilities.

8. Implement rent control measures: Rent control laws set limits on how much landlords can increase rent each year in an effort to keep housing costs more affordable for residents. This can be a controversial policy, but it is worth considering as a short-term solution in areas with high housing demand and limited supply.

9. Increase minimum wage: One of the main reasons why housing is unaffordable for many low-income residents is because their wages are not keeping up with rising housing costs. States can increase their minimum wage to help workers afford basic living expenses, including housing.

10. Invest in infrastructure and public transportation: Improving access to transportation can expand affordable housing options for individuals who work in urban areas but cannot afford to live there. Similarly, investing in infrastructure such as roads and utilities can make previously inaccessible land suitable for development, leading to an increase in affordable housing options.

11. Support programs for homelessness prevention: Homelessness has become a growing problem across the country, and states can support programs that prevent families from becoming homeless in the first place. By providing rental assistance, temporary shelter, or other supportive services, individuals and families may be able to avoid eviction and stay in their homes.

12. Promote energy-efficient and sustainable building practices: Building energy-efficient housing units can reduce utility costs for residents while also promoting environmental sustainability. States can offer incentives or impose regulations that encourage developers to incorporate sustainable features into their projects.

13. Create policies to protect renters’ rights: Many low-income residents are renting their homes because they cannot afford homeownership. States can create policies that protect renters’ rights and prevent unfair rent increases or evictions without just cause.

14. Partner with private developers: State governments can partner with private developers through public-private partnerships (PPPs) to develop new affordable housing units. This helps spread the financial burden between the public and private sectors, making these projects more feasible.

15. Encourage accessory dwelling unit (ADU) development: ADUs are secondary units built on existing residential properties and typically have lower construction costs compared to traditional housing units. States can incentivize the development of ADUs to provide more affordable housing options for residents.

16. Offer tax incentives for affordable housing developers: To encourage more affordable housing development in the state, governments can offer tax breaks or other financial incentives to developers who build affordable units.

17. Address gentrification and displacement: Gentrification can push low-income residents out of their neighborhoods by increasing housing costs. States can implement policies to protect disadvantaged communities from being displaced and ensure that they benefit from economic development in their areas.

18. Invest in education and job training: State governments can invest in education and job training programs to improve the earning potential of low-income residents. This will help them afford better-quality housing and improve their overall socioeconomic status.

19. Provide financial literacy and credit counseling services: Many individuals struggle to access affordable housing due to poor credit scores or a lack of financial literacy. States can provide resources and services to help residents improve their credit scores and budget effectively.

20. Conduct regular assessments of existing policies: It is essential for states to regularly review and assess existing policies aimed at addressing affordability to determine their effectiveness and make necessary changes accordingly. This will help ensure that government efforts are targeted towards the most effective solutions for making housing more affordable for all residents.