New Updates on The Edge on 03/11/2014

New on The Edge

In Practice:
Boston, Massachusetts: Energy Positive Homes
Four energy positive townhomes recently opened in Boston’s Roxbury neighborhood. Designed to produce more energy than they consume on an annual basis, the homes are the result of city-led efforts to advance sustainable building design in neighborhoods that are well served by transit and other amenities. These affordable homes are equipped with superinsulated envelopes and photovoltaic systems, resulting in reduced heating and cooling demands and significant utility savings.

Policy Update:
Measuring the Costs and Savings of Aging in Place
Conversations about the benefits and costs of aging in place are becoming increasingly important with the United States’ ongoing demographic shift toward an older population. Although more studies are needed, recent research on home-based health programs suggests that aging in place can yield potential cost savings at the individual, state, and federal levels.

Statistical Reports:
February 2014 Housing Scorecard
The February 2014 Housing Scorecard shows continued progress in many key indicators as the purchase price of new homes rose and foreclosure completions continued their downward trend in January. Homeowners’ equity jumped over $400 billion in the 4th quarter of 2013, reaching more than $10 trillion for the first time since 2007. The Neighborhood Stabilization Program has now completed or rehabilitated 32,000 units, and the Administration's foreclosure mitigation programs continue to provide relief for millions of homeowners.