- Housing in many North American cities is expensive.
- People say land is scarce or costs rise.
- Some blame investors and construction prices.
- A researcher says local planning also matters.
- Planners and politicians approve new buildings.
- Some approvals take a long time.
- Long approvals make projects more costly.
- Higher costs often go to home buyers.
Difficult words
- housing — places where people live, like houses
- scarce — not enough of something, there is little
- investor — a person or group who puts money into projectsinvestors
- planning — making decisions about building and land use
- approve — to say yes to a plan or project
- construction — the process of building houses or buildings
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Is housing expensive where you live?
- Have you seen new buildings near you?
- Who should decide about new buildings in your town?
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