Mobile Development Thread

[housingdev-TParker]

I agree, will all of these high-end condos take off? I'd love to live downtown, but I'd like to see affordable living solutions in that area.

This is an interesting development in New Orleans, maybe this could work somewhere in Mobile. (FYI Nola Yurp is a young professionals organization):

The Nola Yurp Initiative has partnered with CoolTown Beta Communities, a real estate development consulting firm based in Washington, D.C., to facilitate and develop a cutting edge district for young professionals in New Orleans. But this will not just be any old real estate development—it will actually be designed by the members of Nola Yurp!

The project’s success is based on a method called crowdsourcing, where contributing members will be able to give input on everything from the architectural style to the name of the district to the type of flooring in the residences to all of the available amenities! In exchange for input, the contributing members will be given an opportunity to invest sweat equity in the project, to purchase or rent residences below market rates, and benefit from VIP discounts and privileges at the new businesses. Possibilities for the project include high-style yet attainable housing for young professionals, LEED certified green development, rooftop gardens, cutting edge office space, ground floor retail including entrepreneurial workspace, local independent cafés and stores, a culinary institute…the options are limitless and will be collectively decided by you!

Additionally, bonuses will be offered throughout the process to individual members. For example, a naming or recruiting competition may be held with the winner receiving cash or project equity. The developer benefits by getting a market-driven product and a ready supply of customers. Most importantly, New Orleans benefits through the establishment of a district that thrives on innovation, energy, and young people; an increased tax base, and grass roots community involvement in rebuilding with tangible results.