At the Capitol, Assembly Republican lawmakers hope to alleviate Wisconsin’s affordable housing shortage.
State Representative Robert Brooks of Saukville referencing homes built a generation ago.
“We’re talking about small ranch homes, bungalow homes. Some of those homes built without garages or alleyways or detached garages. So that’s what we’re talking about. Built on smaller lots 1500 square foot, 1200 square foot,” Brooks said.
Wisconsin Realtors Association President and CEO Tom Larson says the average home price in Wisconsin is now about $340,000, and the average age of a first-time home buyer is 38.
“Wisconsin’s affordability is worse than any of our surrounding neighbors. It’s worse in Minnesota, Illinois, Michigan and Iowa,” Larson said.
Assembly Republicans are proposing a package of legislation. As always, anything approved there also needs to pass the state Senate before going to the governor.