Though the U.S. Census Bureau predicts the country's population will grow by more than100 million people during the next four decades, not all respondents to the Gazette said this will mean more demand for housing. Dotty Abt of Long & Foster Real Estate pointed out the population is also expected to age, which could mean higher turn-over of existing units. This could be especially true in the Washington, D.C., area, given that a recent Wall Street 24/7 study found Maryland and Virginia were among the top ten states for loss of population under the age of 15 between 2001 and 2009.
Other respondents said changes in lifestyle could mean more renters as opposed to buyers, or more condos than stand-alone houses. This accords with recent statements made by Chief Executive Officer of the Urban Land Institute, Patrick L. Phillips. Phillips said moving trends already suggest aging baby boomers and their children are increasingly attracted to high-density housing close to urban centers, which allows them to drive less, reducing their carbon footprint and stress levels.
Raleigh, North Carolina, and Kennewick, Washington, are two markets to keep an eye on as bellwethers for how population growth will affect housing. ProximityOne predicts these metro areas will see the greatest percentage change in population in the next nine years.
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