MHP Connect

At the December Minnesota Housing board meeting, the highlights included recognition of the hard-work of Minnesota Housing staff, an introduction of the State Director to Prevent and End Homelessness, plus funding announcements and a potential transaction with HUD.

With a slow downward trend in foreclosures overall, we've been curious to know how renters are being impacted by foreclosures, and what's changing over time. Based on local data, MHP has found that foreclosures on rental properties have decreased over the past few years.  Yet foreclosures of rental properties still make up nearly one-fourth of all residential foreclosures in Ramsey and Hennepin counties. Extending protections to renters in foreclosure remains an urgent issue.

In March 2012, the MHP launched the Impact Spotlight to highlight pace-setting affordable housing development projects in Minnesota. Featuring a different development or program each month, the Impact Spotlight celebrates the work of affordable housing partners in creating healthy, sustainable communities. Check out the innovative housing our state offers thanks to the hard work of so many who care about safe, affordable places Minnesotans can call home!

In the third quarter of 2012, conditions were very clearly on the up-and-up for homeowners and the housing industry. Renters, however, are still awaiting brighter days, with rental housing scarce, especially for cash-strapped lower-income renters. The number of homeless families turning to Hennepin County for shelter reached a 12-year high this quarter, according to the latest "2 x 4" Report.