Lehigh Valley Realtors discuss workforce housing and regional collaboration strategies

The Economic Development Committee meeting held on July 3rd in Northampton County, Pennsylvania, focused heavily on the pressing issue of housing, particularly the need for affordable and workforce housing in the region. The discussions highlighted the challenges faced by local municipalities and the Greater Lehigh Valley Association of Realtors in addressing these housing needs.

Michael Bernadine, president of the Greater Lehigh Valley Realtors, emphasized the importance of building relationships with local municipalities to enhance housing opportunities. He noted that the region's housing market is currently experiencing a significant shortage, with only 1.3 months of inventory available, compared to a healthy market standard of six months. This shortage has created a seller's market, making it increasingly difficult for potential buyers, particularly first-time homebuyers, to find affordable options.

The concept of "workforce housing" was a central theme in the meeting. Bernadine and his colleagues stressed the necessity of retaining graduates from local educational institutions by providing them with affordable housing options. They argued that without adequate workforce housing, the region risks losing young professionals who contribute to the local economy.

Asher, the government relations director, further elaborated on the challenges posed by rising housing costs and the impact of external factors such as fluctuating mortgage rates. He pointed out that many homeowners are reluctant to sell their properties due to the current high-interest rates, which complicates the housing market dynamics.

The meeting also touched on legislative efforts aimed at improving housing conditions. The Realtors' association has been actively advocating against proposed increases in deed transfer taxes, which they believe would further exacerbate housing affordability issues. Additionally, they discussed the need for better training programs for landlords to ensure that rental properties are maintained to acceptable standards, particularly in light of the aging housing stock in the area.

The committee acknowledged the complexities of the housing market, including the challenges posed by out-of-state landlords and the need for municipalities to navigate various regulations effectively. The discussions underscored the importance of collaboration between realtors, local governments, and community organizations to address these pressing housing issues.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the urgent need for strategic planning and action to improve housing availability and affordability in Northampton County. As the region continues to grapple with these challenges, the collaboration between stakeholders will be crucial in developing effective solutions that benefit the community as a whole. The committee plans to continue these discussions in future meetings, focusing on actionable steps to enhance housing opportunities for all residents.