joebagadonuts wrote:you'd be surprised at how much land there still is to build on in the U.S.
with technology allowing employees more flexibility in their workplace, i think you'll see development reach outward rather than 'upward'. i think you'll also see a lot of pressure to relax laws and bylaws that protect wetlands and coastal areas. there is a ton of land that, if those pesky rules were relaxed, could be used to produce quite a number of condos.
Those "pesky rules" are the only things that will allow my grandchildren to enjoy the natural environment some day.
Now, we are both in the architectural profession, so don't get me wrong; development is critical for us to make a living. And you're right, there's a lot of land that hasn't been developed yet. But I'm willing to bet that the land available in Maine far outreaches what is available in/around D.C.
Smart design is the key. Mixed-income developments with various levels of housing types has proven very valuable around here, and many other areas around the U.S. But all that seems to be going up around here are condos, condos, and more condos; add about 100,000 McMansion single family homes, worth about $200,000, but starting at $1.4 mil, sprouting up around what little underdeveloped suburban areas we have left, and you get 2 1/2 hr. commutes - and that's only if you can even afford the house, which is becoming ever more challenging.
1st time homebuyers don't have a chance in hell to get started around here, and even if they do get lucky, they eventually have to move 60, 80, or 100 miles outside of their work zone in order to have a good job, and be able to afford a modest single-family home at the same time.
of course and this has a long way to go before happening; however, all proposals begin somewhere and it's better to nip them in the bud.
