Housing in the United States: The Basics

Housing matters to people, be they owner, renter, housing provider, homeless individual, housing professional, or policymaker. Housing in the United States: The Basics offers an accessible introduction to key concepts and issues in housing--and a concise overview of the programs that affect housing choices, affordability, and access in the United States today. Part 1 covers the fundamentals of housing: households, housing units, and neighborhoods
housing as basic need vs. human right
supply and demand
construction, rehabilitation, and renovation
and demographic, socioeconomic, and cultural trends. Part 2 focuses on housing policy and its evolution from the early 20th century, through the Great Recession to the present day
policies related to owner- and renter-occupied housing
tax policies and expenditures
place- and people-based programs
and shortages of affordable housing.

Written in a clear and engaging style, this guide allows readers to quickly grasp the complex range of policies, programs, and factors that shape the housing landscape. Essential reading for students, community advocates, homebuyers/renters, and professionals with an interest in housing, it also serves as an ideal text for introductory courses in urban planning, urban studies, sociology, public administration, architecture, and real estate.

Housing in the United States: The Basics provides a valuable and practical foundation for informed housing discussions at the kitchen table, in the classroom, at work, or on Capitol Hill.