1. + Where do I stand on Gentrification? AP HUG

2. + Gentrification… What is it? Gentrification is the process of renewal and reinvestment of capital into inner-city areas. In economic terms, it means the value and cost of neighborhood housing and property is higher. Gentrification accompanies the influx of middle-class or affluent people into deteriorating areas that often displaces poorer residents.

3. + The “Monopoly” Analogy One way to think about gentrification is to play the game of Monopoly. In the game, the goal is to be the wealthiest player through buying, renting, and selling property. In every game there are winners and losers, just like real life! While homeowners want the value of their home to increase, when this happens, so does the property tax. So, when gentrification drives up property values, some people (usually those on fixed incomes, or with low paying jobs) can’t afford their homes anymore.

4. + Is it good or bad? Some consider it a positive sign of reinvestment in a neighborhood Yay!!! A new Starbucks on the corner! Others resent the changes in population and character. The local mom and pop coffee shop lost business after they put a new Starbucks on the corner.

5. + Why does Gentrification Happen? Government wants it to because it generates taxes through rise in property values Younger professionals and sometimes retirees want to live close to the urban core, where jobs, transportation, and entertainment are. We are a society of change- we don’t stay put for long like other culture do. (avg American moves 4 times in lifetime)

6. + What are some of the advantages of Gentrification? Housing values increase for homeowners Increase tax revenues for city services Reinvestment is made in infrastructure, roads, water mains, local schools Business expansion Renovation and upgrading of existing homes Development of job opportunities

7. + What are some of the disadvantages of Gentrification? Higher income investors displace lower income residents Disrupts community institutions rooted in neighborhoods Forces some people to move away from community Can increase racial and economic conflict (often times it’s minority groups being displaced)