Ivory Innovations has released a new guide offering solutions to simplify and accelerate housing development.
"The Little Book of Low-Cost, High-Impact Housing Solutions" identifies six key areas that most impact the cost of time in housing development and provides steps that cities can implement.
"We know how challenging it can be to build housing, but we're extremely encouraged by the many cities that are breaking the mold and stepping up using innovative approaches that are cutting down on the time it takes to entitle, approve and permit new homes," said Clark Ivory, CEO of Ivory Homes and co-founder of Ivory Innovations. "We're especially impressed by the six cities featured in our case studies who are sharing not only solutions but best practices for how to innovate and lead on housing affordability."
Ivory Innovations is a foundation and academic center based at the University of Utah David Eccles School of Business.
The book features real-world case studies from innovative cities including Austin, Texas; South Bend, Indiana; Portland, Oregon; Sacramento, California; Minneapolis; and Columbus, Ohio, demonstrating proven strategies that have successfully accelerated housing production.
The Little Book outlines six critical solutions for reducing development timelines and costs—with detailed action checklists for each:
- Streamline Approval Processes: Implementing fast-track reviews, permitting software, and third-party reviews;
- Simplify Design Standards: Creating preapproved architectural plans, reducing parking minimums, garage, and other design standards;
- Build Infill on Existing Infrastructure: Maximizing current infrastructure capacity for new housing and incentivizing infill;
- Plan for Smart Density: Updating zoning to enable diverse, denser housing types;
- Partnering on Housing Solutions: Exploring innovative financing and public-private partnerships; and
- Employ New Construction Methods: Leveraging modular and manufactured housing technologies.
"The Little Book of Low-Cost, High Impact Housing Solutions" is designed specifically for city managers, mayors, community development professionals, planning commissioners, and housing advocates who are passionate about making a difference in their communities. Each solution chapter includes detailed case studies, municipal action checklists, and specific implementation steps that cities can pilot immediately.
The book is available as a free digital download. Hard copies can also be purchased through Ivory Innovations at ivoryinnovations.org/thelittlebook.