How does affordable housing happen?
Affordable housing happens when communities plan for it.
When a community plans for housing that is affordable to those members of the community who can't afford market prices, it doesn't involve lowering standards, or paying less for rehabilitation, construction or maintenance.
Instead, it means having policies and plans and resources that support setting aside sites, with quality design, construction and management, as well as lower rents.
Community support comes in the form of land that is reduced in price or donated, waiver of fees, density bonuses, low interest loans, or grants.
Some of the resources available to communities are local, such as Marin Community Foundation and civic-minded donors and communities. Some resources are state or federal.
Affordable housing in Marin County is owned by non-profits or by the Marin Housing Authority. Some units are deed-restricted, owned by market-rate owners as part of the community's housing plan.
For a full list of affordable housing complexes, call Marin Housing Assistance: (415) 491-2345.