Questioning stereotypes about US site-based subsidized housing
International Journal of Housing Markets and Analysis
ISSN: 1753-8270
Article publication date: 10 August 2020
Issue publication date: 23 June 2021
Abstract
Purpose
There is a dearth of basic analysis about how the demographics of residents living in the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) subsidized properties relate to the quality of housing. This research vacuum is often filled by popular stereotypes. This study aims to address this gap by examining the relationship between the demographics of residents and inspection scores.
Design/methodology/approach
Two data sources are drawn from the analysis: the 2018 HUD Picture of Subsidized Households database and HUD’s 2018 REAC Public and Multi-Family Housing Inspection Scores. Linear and logistic regression analysis were conducted, and selected data were mapped using GIS software.
Findings
The analysis examines the demographics of site-based subsidized properties in relation to inspection scores. In 2018, HUD identified 31,225 traditional public housing and other site-based multi-family properties in its Picture of Subsidized Households database. Residents living in these properties are often stereotyped as a homogeneous group that is predominantly composed of single, minority women with children who are welfare dependent. Similarly, properties are often portrayed as dilapidated, high-rise projects in segregated urban communities. The results from the analysis do not support these stereotypes about HUD-subsidized multi-family properties. By contrast, the results indicate that a diverse group of households lives in HUD-subsidized multi-family properties.
Originality/value
There is a need for scholars, advocates and practitioners to more aggressively challenge the popular stereotypes about site-based subsidized housing. In particular, there is a need for enhanced public scholarship focused on the dissemination of evidence-based research.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
Work that provided the basis for this publication was supported by a research grant from the Baldy Center for Law and Social Policy at the University at Buffalo.
Citation
Silverman, R.M., Patterson, K.L. and Wang, C. (2021), "Questioning stereotypes about US site-based subsidized housing", International Journal of Housing Markets and Analysis, Vol. 14 No. 3, pp. 613-631. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJHMA-05-2020-0057
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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