Breaking Down Affordable Housing: What It Is and Why It Matters

Sep 8, 2024 | CLTRE, CLTRE Keeper, News

Affordable housing is becoming a significant concern in Sacramento. As the city continues to expand, housing costs are rising steadily, which leaves many families—especially those from low-income and BIPOC communities—struggling to find affordable homes. But what exactly does affordable housing mean, and why is it so crucial for Sacramento’s future?

What Is Affordable Housing?

At its core, affordable housing refers to homes where individuals or families spend no more than 30% of their income on housing costs, including rent or mortgage payments. When this threshold is exceeded, people often find it difficult to afford basic necessities, such as healthcare, food, and education.

In Sacramento, finding housing has become increasingly difficult. As a result of the city’s rapid growth and rising real estate prices, many families—particularly in underserved communities—face significant pressure. Without access to housing affordability, these families are at risk of displacement, which can weaken community ties and harm cultural identity.

Why Affordable Housing Matters for Sacramento

Affordable housing plays a vital role in creating strong, inclusive communities. Here are several reasons why it is essential for Sacramento:

1. Prevents Displacement

As housing prices continue to rise, long-time residents, particularly from low-income and BIPOC communities, often face the risk of being priced out of their neighborhoods. This displacement not only disrupts lives but also erodes the cultural fabric of these communities. Consequently, affordable housing ensures that families can remain in their homes, thereby preserving the diversity and history of Sacramento’s neighborhoods. At CLTRE, our CLTRE Keeper Program helps families stay in their communities by providing ownership opportunities.

2. Strengthens Local Economies

Affordable housing plays a direct role in boosting local economic growth. When families spend less on rent or mortgages, they have more disposable income to invest in local businesses. This, in turn, helps local merchants thrive and creates a positive cycle of economic growth, ultimately benefiting the entire community.

3. Promotes Equity

Historically, low-income and BIPOC families have faced systemic barriers to accessing stable housing. We know that housing that is affordable helps close this gap by providing more equitable opportunities. Through CLTRE’s First-Time Homebuyer Program, we address these barriers by offering down payment assistance and personalized financial support. Thus, this program enables families to achieve homeownership and build wealth.

4. Supports Inclusive Growth

As Sacramento continues to expand, it is crucial to ensure that development benefits all residents. By integrating workforce housing into urban development projects, we ensure that everyone can thrive. For example, CLTRE’s real estate project on Del Paso Blvd promotes growth that includes affordable workforce housing, creating vibrant communities where residents can live, work, and prosper.

How CLTRE Is Tackling Sacramento’s Housing Crisis

At CLTRE, we are committed to ensuring that all Sacramento residents have access to safe and affordable by design housing. Through our CLTRE Keeper Program and community-driven real estate development projects, we provide sustainable housing solutions for families across the city.

Additionally, by partnering with organizations such as U.S. Bank and the City of Sacramento, we are able to expand homeownership opportunities. These partnerships allow us to help families secure long-term stability and build wealth for future generations.

The Path Forward

As Sacramento continues to grow, the need for affordable housing will remain a critical issue. The city’s future depends on ensuring that every resident has access to homes they can afford. By addressing this need, we not only provide stability for families but also foster a more vibrant, inclusive community.

At CLTRE, we are dedicated to expanding these opportunities. By increasing access to affordable housing and helping families achieve homeownership, we are working to build a stronger, more inclusive Sacramento.

Call to Action: Join Us in Creating Housing Solutions

If you’re passionate about finding innovative housing solutions, reach out to CLTRE today! Together, we can ensure that every family has the opportunity to secure a home, and by doing so, build a brighter future for Sacramento.

Read Related Blogs