ABSTRACT
Local housing markets are diverse and are influenced by a combination of economic, physical and locational factors. Rural and small town communities across the economic and locational continuum experience problems with housing quality, availability, adequacy and affordability. Communities facing high poverty and economic decline show evidence of disinvestment through a prevalence of dilapidated homes, high level of vacancies, low levels of homeownership and high housing cost-burdens while high growth, high amenity areas tend to have lower rental vacancy rates and fewer affordable housing options, making it difficult for long-term, less-affluent residents to find and keep a place to live. Addressing these housing problems requires strong leadership and active involvement from a diverse group of stakeholders in order to developing a plan and secure the funding needed for housing and neighborhood revitalization. The chapter includes a review of literature and a case study of a program designed to increase local capacity to address housing issues in rural and small towns in Georgia. This case study will examine how communities of varying sizes, economic and demographic characteristics use community social capital to provide affordable, safe and stable housing. Policy implications will be identified and addressed.
