The NAHB shared several case studies of pre-approved housing plans in small urban, large urban, and county-wide applications to highlight their usefulness in increasing the efficiency and speed of the housing approval process.
Pre-approved housing plans include architectural designs and construction blueprints that have already received approval from municipal authorities or regulatory bodies. The plans adhere to local building codes, zoning regulations, and ensure compliance with local requirements. The NAHB says by providing a pre-approved framework, the plans help expedite the development process and promote efficiency.
The NAHB’s From Blueprint to Reality: Harnessing the Power of Pre-Approved Housing Plans with Real-World Examples includes case studies in Ecorse, Michigan; Kalamazoo, Michigan; and Yavapai County, Arizona highlighting success with pre-approved plans. The report is designed to create awareness of pre-approved housing plans to help builders solve long development review timelines as part of the organization’s 10-point housing affordability blueprint.
According to the NAHB, in Ecorse, Michigan, a suburb of Detroit, vacant lots are being utilized for urban infill through pre-approved infill plans. The city is offering incentives and reducing construction costs to help make homeownership more accessible while increasing the tax base.
Kalamazoo, Michigan, a city of 73,000, has implemented pre-approved plans to revitalize vacant lots and improve neighborhood appearances as well. By adjusting zoning regulations and offering a variety of home plans, the city is aiming to improve the tax base and alleviate its housing shortage.
Yavapai County, Arizona launched a pre-approved infill program, helping applicants save approximately $10,800 on construction costs.
The NAHB says such pre-approved housing plans can serve as a tool to combat the complexities of modern housing challenges.
