Association for Public Policy Analysis & Management

Panel: Unpacking the Implications of Mexican Housing Policies and Practices

(Sustainable Urban and Metropolitan Development)

The papers from this panel address a variety of housing policy issues in Mexico related to finance, informality, ownership, local governance, and transportation. Over the last couple of decades, urbanization patterns have been dominated by unregulated, speculative and sprawling housing developments in the urban fringes. This has had significant implications, such as the increase in commuting times, inadequate access to infrastructure and services, housing vacancy and abandonment. The panelists analyze the policies that have contributed to current urban configurations, as well as the practices that have counteracted them. By doing so, they also draft and envision alternatives to current scenarios. Jimenez’s article proposes several administrative and judicial procedures that can reduce the phenomenon of “clouded titles” in housing inheritance, and thus foment a healthier residential housing market. Ariadna Reyes’ article uncovers the factors that allow residents in colonias populares to conduct sustainable transportation practices. Alejandra Reyes’ article discusses the structural and institutional factors that contribute to the high vacancy rates in many social housing projects.

Chen’s essay highlights the role of municipal government in improving the condition in existing social housing projects and promote an ordered and inclusionary urbanization. Finally, Rojas’ article examines the relationship between eviction policies and the volume of rental housing in Latin American countries.