November 2, 2020

WHAT’S MISSING: Why Missing Middle Housing Is The Next Big Thing?

Going back to the days when duplexes, fourplexes, cottage courts, and courtyard buildings, they were all examples of “missing middle housing.” The concept of missing middle housing would focus on the idea that it provides a range of multiunit and clustered housing types. 

As you may have noticed as a buyer and or real estate investor, properties are now being sold at a fast pace, and there may be instances that your ideal home is sold at a higher price. Not to mention, some states are crowded with spaces that finding that spot just for you becomes a challenge. 

The downside of Missing Middle Housing is that these designs have fallen in popularity. People have wanted more than meets the eye. Not seeing the potential that these designs have to offer. Amidst the housing demand increase, what society has deemed “missing.” The term “middle” represents two home standards: Their scale lies between single-family homes and large apartment buildings that are financially attainable for middle-income families.

We also have to remember that the “middle” class binds and covers the majority of every state’s population. In percentile, you would notice that they are the ones looking for properties to either purchase or rent, which makes them viable to the eyes of real estate investors such as yourself.

Here are some of the reasons why “Missing Middle Housing” should become the next big thing in the real estate industry.

Caters To Lower Density To Support The Environment

Missing Middle Housing

These houses’ average density would range from 16 to 35 du/ac (dwelling units per acre). Which would seem like it isn’t enough space, but it is. This would also be the amount of development permitted in a given area. They are also often thought to be less dense than they are. The said homes are condensed and strategically-placed amidst amenities.

Missing middle housing can be thoughtfully integrated and bound into single-family neighborhoods to increase the population density. The bigger the population, the community can support an area and even generate commercial amenities and transit. 

People fail to notice that the front door doesn’t dictate the general area that a single unit can accommodate. You may see that tight space as one floor may be flipped to the extent that a second floor within the same parameters is made, which would house more than one person in a unit. 

These Homes Are Targeted To Be Located At Workable Areas

Missing Middle Housing

The location of missing middle housing is efficient. Given the area and space they take up, placing them within a community or site can be quickly done. Should a community of Missing Middle Housing be created, they will support and develop their working area in time.

Buyers are now drawn to the idea that amenities and workspaces are accessible through walking compared to taking long drives and messing with traffic. They would instead rent out or purchase a small unit that will suffice their needs with less inconvenience.

These House Focus On The Community They Build Or Are In

Missing middle housing’s amenities will help contribute to that need through shared building spaces, with everyone amidst the premises wanting the same thing. The common goal will lead to associated need fulfillment and, in return, will assist each other in making ends meet.

Big Doesn’t Always Mean Luxury.

People assume that they need big spaces and luxury homes because they do not maximize their space. A small unit can have two floors and three bedrooms with a living area, a kitchen, and a bathroom. It’s how you perceive the space rather than what you think the room can hold.

Have you noticed why the majority of luxury homes and apartments have spaces that aren’t used? Or that they would have a room just for things that they do not even use? The space we think we need isn’t always the case. If we can maximize and utilize every inch of what we are given, we can still enjoy a luxurious life.

One Car Is Enough

Missing Middle Housing

Another reason why the vast majority is drawn to big spaces is the concept wherein they can have more than one parking space. Have you noticed that only 3% of your neighborhood’s population owns more than one car, and they aren’t using it regularly?

Missing Middle Housing will only cater to one parking space per unit. Therefore, you are only using one care amidst an area that doesn’t require you to have one. Honestly speaking, space could even be used for a garden or a small area for friends and family barbecues.

The beauty of Missing Middle Housing is the idea wherein we value the space we are given. Rather than focusing on spaces and properties, we can’t have but will lead to crippling debt. Think about it; the properties you purchase will rely on the amenity you want to live in.

If a small space can already accommodate your daily needs, what can a space that caters to 12 rooms, four parking spaces, and a garden do for you? Let’s utilize and maximize our resources rather than waste what we already have.

Real estate investors like you should also consider that purchasing properties such as “Missing Middle Housing” may not seem like the course of action you would want to take today. However,  you should believe that it may be a step towards a brighter future. Spaces and areas are getting tighter each day with the rising population; these small units will become the next big thing.

If you are just getting started with the real estate industry and wondering how Missing Middle Houses can be maximized, then this may be the place to be.

Join REIQ Community today and learn from our team of experienced real estate investors!

Excerpts: Real estate investors like you should also consider that purchasing properties such as “Missing Middle Housing” may not seem like the course of action you would want to take today.

Here are some of the reasons why “Missing Middle Housing” should become the next big thing in the real estate industry.

Disclaimer: The blog articles are intended for educational and informational purposes only. Nothing in the content is intended as legal or financial advice.

Sources: https://www.strongtowns.org/journal/2020/8/5/where-the-missing-middle-isnt-missing