Access vs. exclusion
Most residential land in the U.S. is reserved for this type of housing, making entry into many communities expensive.
What is single-family zoning?
High home prices are just a result of greedy sellers and agents.
What is a MYTH ?
In many NWI markets, homes are still selling quickly with multiple offers due to this ongoing condition.
What is low inventory ?
This type of zoning change allows a single-family home to be converted into two units, increasing cash flow potential.
What is a duplex conversion ?
This event was created to bring together professionals across the industry to have conversations that don’t usually happen in everyday transactions.
What is Common Ground ?
This type of small housing unit—often built in a backyard—is one of the simplest ways to increase access without changing neighborhood character.
What is an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit)?
Building more housing—of all types—can help stabilize or reduce housing costs over time.
What is a truth?
This type of buyer is becoming more common in NWI due to affordability pressures in Illinois.
What are relocating buyers from Illinois ?
Properties located near this type of infrastructure often become prime targets for higher-density housing and investor interest.
What is public transit ?
This key theme of tonight’s discussion focuses on balancing growth, community character, and opportunity.
What is housing policy and zoning (or access vs. exclusion) ?
In many desirable NWI communities, this process can take months or even years, favoring those with deep pockets.
What is the zoning and approval process?
Protecting single-family zoning always preserves affordability and community stability.
What is a myth?
These types of properties in NWI are gaining popularity among investors due to cash flow potential.
What are multi-family properties (2–4 units) ?
This NWI city is gaining attention due to redevelopment efforts, available land, and long-term upside potential.
What is Gary ?
These professionals have a unique role in guiding clients, interpreting the market, and influencing access to housing.
What are Realtors ?
These NWI communities are known for strong schools but limited housing diversity, making them harder to access without wealth.
What are Munster, Dyer, St. John, Crown Point, or Valparaiso?
Long approval processes and excessive regulation can increase housing costs.
What is a truth?
This feature is becoming increasingly important to buyers, influencing where they choose to live in NWI.
What is access to transit / proximity to Chicago ?
This strategy allows homeowners or investors to add additional income by building a second unit on an existing property.
What is building an ADU ?
This organization supports advocacy efforts that directly impact housing policy at the local and state level.
What is RPAC ?
This REALTOR® advocacy tool directly influences housing policy and determines who gets access to communities.
What is RPAC?
Restricting apartments and multi-family housing has no impact on who can live in a community.
What is a myth?
In some NWI communities, limited housing types and strict zoning are contributing to this major market issue.
What is lack of affordability (or limited housing supply) ?
This is the key advantage investors gain when zoning rules become clearer and approvals become faster.
What is predictability (or reduced risk)?
This is what happens when professionals stay informed, get involved, and choose to influence policy instead of just reacting to it.
What is leadership ?