Michigan houses are old and getting older. It’s a ‘huge problem’ for state
When the typical Michigan home was built, Richard Nixon was president, US forces were withdrawing from Vietnam and “The Exorcist” would become the year’s…
In Michigan, a significant portion of the state's housing stock is composed of older homes built before the 1970s. Specifically, around 60% of occupied Michigan homes, totaling approximately 2.5 million units, were constructed in or before that decade. The median age of a home in the state is notably older compared to the national average.
Dawn Crandall, a representative from the Home Builders Association of Michigan, has highlighted the challenges posed by this aging housing stock. She pointed out that the issues associated with aging homes, such as costly renovations for water heaters, deteriorating roofs, and outdated electrical systems, can deter first-time homebuyers.
The median age of potential homebuyers in Michigan has recently reached an all-time high of 40 years old. While Michigan lawmakers have introduced legislation to reform zoning laws and encourage more home construction, these proposals have yet to pass. Consequently, whoever becomes the next governor of Michigan may face the ongoing challenge of addressing the affordability and safety concerns associated with the state's aging housing stock.
Currently, both major political parties have expressed interest in addressing the issue, but they have not yet provided detailed plans to tackle the specific problems posed by older homes.
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