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Techniques For Mitigating Urban Sprawl
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Strategy: Objective-Based Strategies  - Incentives
Policy Action: Location Efficient Mortgages (LEM)
Definition:

Linking transportation and housing policy makes good financial sense. To the degree less is spent on transportation, more income is freed up for housing consumption. The concept of Location Efficient Mortgages (LEMs) has gained currency. If the homebuyer purchases a home in areas that are well-served by transit, they are assumed to be saving money by foregoing auto expenses. This money is counted as income, thus allowing them to qualify for a larger mortgage and buy housing in closer-in areas. LEMs are also good for developers, who gain a larger market by building housing in transit supportive areas. Demonstration programs, co-sponsored by Fannie Mae (federal mortgage insurance agency) and several private banks, are currently under way or being implemented in Chicago, Seattle, San Francisco Bay Area, and Los Angeles. Case/Example: LEM program of Seattle (WA). Source/Reference: Cervero, 2000, pp. 12; WS DOT, 2000, pp. 53-54; Goldstein, 1996.


Texas Applications

Guardian Mortgage Texas – “Location Efficient Mortgages are available to individuals purchasing more expensive homes in areas where with efficient public transportation systems. These loans take into account monies saved on the expenses related to owning or leasing automobiles.”


Reports and Studies


Links

Location Efficient Development and Mortgages — “Location Efficient Development consists of residential and commercial development located and designed to maximize Accessibility and overall Affordability. This usually means that it is close to good transit service and public services, has good walking and cycling conditions and other features that reduce Automobile Dependency. It often involves urban infill, such as projects to redevelop inner-city neighborhoods or converting older industrial buildings to loft apartments. Location Efficient Development can also include efforts to cluster activities and services together into Commercial Centers, and to redevelop older downtowns. Residents and employees in such areas tend to drive less, rely more on alternative forms of transportation, and enjoy better transportation options than those who live or work in less accessible areas.”


Page References


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