Regional Growth Policy

The Saint Paul Area Association of Realtors® (SPAAR) recognizes that homeownership is the cornerstone of building wealth and financial stability. Homeownership is an opportunity that should be afforded to those that wish to achieve it.

SPAAR recognizes that residents should be able to live where they desire if they can afford to do so. Demographic trends, housing studies, and citizen input indicate our communities need a variety of housing choices. Communities must support housing affordability for low and median income buyers. The move-up market remains important to increase availability of existing affordable housing units for first time homebuyers. Regulatory barriers and impact fees increase housing costs and reduce housing choices and affordability. Therefore, SPAAR encourages incentives that provide housing opportunity rather than requirements that might stymie the local housing market.

Transportation is an important component of regional growth planning. An efficient transportation system needs to include a combination of autos, buses, light and commuter rail transit; all are essential building blocks creating a solid foundation for our regional economy. Minnesota must be mindful of transportation and transit-oriented development when engaged in regional planning.
Public-private partnerships bring the best elements from government and the private sector together to find meaningful solutions to regional issues. These partnerships, based on incentives rather than regulation, should be utilized whenever possible to solve issues of housing, transportation, and regional growth.

All communities in the region have an integral role to play as the Twin Cities expands. Housing choices available in one community have an effect throughout the region. Local units of government are encouraged to consider regional growth when involved in local planning.

As active members of the communities in which they live, Realtors® are committed to building better communities – from growth and transportation to housing options and affordability.

Approved by the Saint Paul Area Association of Realtors® Board of Directors on March 23, 2023.