News Roundup

  • How a Kansas School Choice Law Could Affect Homebuyers
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    A new open enrollment law in Kansas will allow children to enroll in schools outside their district depending on capacity. Supporters hope to increase academic opportunity for students and believe it could also help homebuyers find more affordable housing. “It does open up more opportunities for families to be in more affordable housing, and every student has the capability to succeed regardless of zip code,” said Elizabeth Patton, state director of Americans for Prosperity–Kansas.

  • How Much Does It Cost to Move in Today’s Market?
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    In the current housing market, sticking with your current home may be the best option. As rents rise at a record pace, it’s cheaper for renters to renew their current lease than to sign a new one. Today, four in five mortgage holders pay an interest rate under 5 percent, deterring many homeowners from buying again as interest rates rise. With less mobility, many households are unable to relocate for higher-paying jobs or their household’s needs. 

  • Medical Respite Programs Grow across the US as Homelessness Worsens
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    Respite centers provide short-term medical care for people experiencing homelessness. Today, 133 programs are spread across 37 states and Washington, DC. As homelessness increases, respite centers can offer relief—but they’re not a permanent solution. “We are not going to end this crisis with medical respite beds alone,” said Julia Dobbins, the director of medical respite for the National Health Care for the Homeless Council. “Medical respite care is not housing.” 

  • Communities across the Twin Cities Adopt Inclusionary Housing Policies
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    Several communities in the Twin Cities area are embracing inclusionary housing policies to increase affordable housing. Although some developers argue too many regulations will increase costs for everyone, advocates continue to push for and welcome new affordable housing units across the region. “We need to make sure everyone, without exception, has a safe, decent, accessible home that is affordable to them,” said Sue Watlov Phillips, executive director of the nonprofit Metropolitan Interfaith Council on Affordable Housing.