A new report recently released by the National Multifamily Housing Council (NMHC) and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) reveals that more than 40% of multifamily development costs are derived from regulations imposed by all levels of government. 

All developers have to comply with regulations that include building codes, zoning requirements, permitting requirements, impact fees, public land requirements, design standards, and federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations, along with more labor requirements.

While these regulations are important when it comes to protecting the health and well-being of our people, a number of them extend far beyond what is needed, according to the NMHC. Housing expenses drastically increase due to the expensive sanctions on developers. Several regulations are also considered redundant, leading to unnecessary expending of resources because of the need to confirm compliance with several regulators. 

Read the full report at this link.

Today's multifamily residents are considering green living as a staple instead of a nice-to-have, placing more emphasis on clean air, comfort and open spaces within their homes and in all areas of their community.

According to the latest report from the National Association of Home Builders, 36% of multifamily developers are building green projects, with that figure set to increase to 47% by the end of 2022. 80% of that number consider themselves green home builders.

To make a sustainable development successful, the effort must start in the design phase. If these considerations aren't dealt with upfront, more expenses are to be expected.

Interest in "unconventional" building options such as modular building, mass timber, and net-zero is growing fast as more developers and designers are figuring out ways to create efficient and sustainable projects while cutting down on costs longterm. Many in the multifamily industry are focusing on how materials and products used to develop a new community affect both residents and the environment.

Some of the essentials you need to consider include smart thermostats, high-efficiency washers and dryers, as well as Energy Star appliances. Greenhouses, EV charging stations, parks, and open community spaces are all outdoor elements that should be considered in multifamily developments.

To learn more about how incorporating sustainable elements is now a necessity in the development and design stages, read the report at this link.

The global pandemic has changed every aspect of our lives. Long hours at home, extended isolation time, uncertainty and worry about current events all take a toll on our physical and mental health.

Our home environments also play a big role in our overall well-being. a recent study conducted by International Arts + Mind Lab (IAM Lab) and Aspen Institute's Health, Medicine & Society Program (HMS) showed that aesthetic experiences significantly affect our body, brain, and behavior.

One important consideration is to design with proxemics in mind. Proxemics is the study of space, how we use it, and how it makes us more or less comfortable. While it has always been important in good design, it has now taken on increased importance because people's tolerance for proximity to others has changed. 

Read the recent article by Multihousing News listing three key considerations for developers when it comes to creating multifamily amenity offerings to maximize well-being below: