Canada, U.S. Cities Advance Affordable Housing Amid Market, Construction Challenges

Various regions in North America and Europe are taking significant steps to address housing shortages through new construction and affordable housing initiatives. Maine's Portland metro area is experiencing exceptionally high online interest in newly built homes, highlighting local demand amid a broader regional housing shortage. Similarly, Ottawa is advancing its housing supply with a federal investment to build 121 new rental homes aimed at increasing affordable and sustainable options. Raleigh has also initiated construction of affordable homes near downtown, reflecting a trend toward community-focused housing development. In Scotland, Dumfries and Galloway Council has set an ambitious target to deliver 460 new homes annually, including both affordable and market units, and is prioritizing strategies to reduce the number of vacant properties. These efforts illustrate a multi-regional commitment to expanding housing availability and affordability through collaborative government and private sector partnerships.