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A free, semi-annual magazine published by NAR, On Common Ground presents a wide range of views on smart growth issues, with the goal of encouraging dialog among REALTORS®, elected officials, and other interested citizens.
Summer 2013: The Vitality of Small Communities
America's history is a testament to the unique joys of living in small communities like the neighborly connection and sense of community often missing in larger metropolitan areas. Across the country, community leaders are joining together to bring new life back to small towns. They are doing it by focusing on smart growth that highlights the existing assets of a community — its history, culture and landscape — or by creating a new source of vitality, such as by encouraging artists to flourish or by undertaking creative placemaking.
Winter 2013: Transportation
How we move around is undergoing a big shift. Travel by car has reached a saturation point, as evidenced by the leveling off of miles driven, and alternatives such as public transit and bicycles are attracting larger shares of the traveling public. This issue of On Common Ground explores the transportation future.
Summer 2012: Communities for All Generations
Housing and community choices are being made by two major demographic groups - Baby Boomers and Millennials. This issue discusses the housing, community and transportation choices that will be made by these groups as well as those of Generation X. The best community is one that works for people of all ages.
Winter 2012: Sustainable Housing
For those trying to buy a home, more stringent lending standards and higher down payment requirements are making it difficult for moderate-income families to become homeowners. And a greater demand for rental housing has made rents unaffordable for many lower-income and working families.
Summer 2011: The New Norm
As the real estate market evolves toward a new normal marked by growing urbanization, greater sustainability, and more transportation choices, the recession may also be remembered as a tipping point for smart growth.
Winter 2011: Placemaking and Economic Environment
In this issue of On Common Ground, we consider the role placemaking plays in economic development today. From celebrating the uniqueness of a place to bringing amenities such as food markets to make more complete walkable neighborhoods, placemaking is becoming a leading economic development strategy.
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The opinions expressed in On Common Ground are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or policy of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®, its members or affiliate organizations.