Carl Horst Chief Executive Officer at Cincinnati Area Board of REALTORS | Official website
Carl Horst Chief Executive Officer at Cincinnati Area Board of REALTORS | Official website
The REALTOR Alliance of Greater Cincinnati has officially endorsed the city's Connected Communities initiative. The organization's Board of Directors voted unanimously in favor of the zoning reform plan, following a positive recommendation from its Advocacy Committee.
Tracy Dunne, Board President, stated, "As the pulse of Greater Cincinnati’s real estate landscape, the REALTOR® Alliance of Greater Cincinnati (RAGC) stands at the forefront of advocating for initiatives that shape the future of our communities. It is with this forward-thinking mindset that we wholeheartedly endorse the Cincinnati Connected Communities Initiative."
For two years, RAGC has collaborated with the City of Cincinnati and City Council to provide feedback and expertise on housing strategies. Jeff Rosa, RAGC’s Advocacy Chair, expressed enthusiasm about the proposal: “This initiative represents more than just a plan; it embodies a transformative vision for our urban infrastructure and zoning. It is a much-needed catalyst for change, addressing long-standing challenges while paving the way for future growth and development.”
The Connected Communities initiative aims to reform zoning and land use to increase housing density and inventory. Currently, Greater Cincinnati's market offers only two months' worth of housing inventory, compared to six months which is considered balanced.
Heather Kopf, a REALTOR and Hyde Park resident, highlighted the initiative's focus on increasing housing options: “Connected Communities tackles the pressing issue of housing. Focusing strategically on increasing housing options, it responds to the growing demand while ensuring affordability and accessibility for all residents. By fostering diverse housing opportunities...we reverse artificially high prices and recreate inclusive neighborhoods that thrive.”
Mary Huttlinger, RAGC’s Government Affairs Director, addressed concerns about property values by citing studies showing positive effects from increased density: “According to a 2022 study published in the Land Use Policy Journal...a 10% increase in density is associated with a 1–1.9% increase in house prices per square foot.” She also noted findings from the Urban Institute indicating slight increases in property values near Low Income Housing Tax Credit properties.
The REALTOR Alliance of Greater Cincinnati represents over 6,000 real estate professionals in Cincinnati. The organization advocates for equal housing opportunities and provides various benefits including educational programs and networking events.
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