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Impact By State

Virginia

Overview Legal Landscape Approaches News

Overview

Like many other parts of the country, Virginia’s growth has resulted in significant housing affordability challenges. Combatting housing affordability issues in the state will require effective solutions that address the needs of all Virginia residents.

Virginia has seen a sharp population increase, with a 7.9% growth since 2010.

1 million Virginians call an apartment home, with demand on the rise.

69% of extremely low-income renters spend more than half of their income on housing.

Between now and 2030, Virginia will need to build 7,000 new apartment homes each year to keep up with demand.

ESTABLISH PREEMPTION

Rent control is an outdated concept. It benefits the very few – and not necessarily those in greatest need – at the expense of the larger society.

REJECT PRICE CONTROLS

It is important for lawmakers to pursue alternatives such as voucher-based rental assistance for those in greatest need to better address housing affordability.

Alternative Approaches

Many states have adopted programs and initiatives to tackle the affordability crisis. In Virginia, policymakers and the housing industry have made concerted efforts to address the problem. Examples include:

HB 152 requires all localities to allow development or redevelopment of “middle housing” residential units upon each lot zoned for single-family residential use.

The Arlington Affordable Housing Master Plan enables the County to respond to current and future needs of residents of all income levels. The plan includes the context for affordable housing in Arlington, an analysis of current and future housing needs, and the full affordable housing policy.

Latest News

Virginia News
Richmond Times-Dispatch: Opinion – Rent Control Measures Will Make Housing Crisis Worse

Richmond Times-Dispatch: Opinion – Rent Control Measures Will Make Housing Crisis Worse

In an opinion piece for the Richmond Times-Dispatch, Ronda Puryear argues against a rent-control plan floated by the Federal Housing Finance Agency. Nationwide rent control would worsen, not alleviate, the housing crisis, says Puryear. She also contends that it would lead to inequitable housing outcomes, with affluent residents “crowding out” working-class renters from affordable apartments. […]
December 1, 2023
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