Housing affordability has been a pressing issue for many residents in Massachusetts, with soaring rents and fierce competition in the housing market leaving many without viable options. To address this growing crisis, the state has introduced groundbreaking legislation: the Affordable Homes Act. This $5 billion initiative is the largest housing bill in Massachusetts history, designed to increase housing availability and make homes more affordable for residents. Here’s a breakdown of what the Affordable Homes Act entails and how it aims to tackle the housing crisis.

The Goals of the Affordable Homes Act
The Affordable Homes Act is a multifaceted approach to solving Massachusetts’ housing challenges. It aims to:
- Accelerate the development of affordable housing.
- Increase the availability of mixed-income multifamily housing.
- Reform zoning laws to allow for innovative housing solutions.
- Provide tax incentives to boost housing production.
Key Components of the Affordable Homes Act
$2 Billion for Housing Development
A significant portion of the bill allocates $2 billion to fast-track the construction of affordable housing and mixed-income multifamily units. This funding is expected to reduce the financial barriers developers face and ensure the creation of more diverse housing options.
Zoning Reforms for Increased Housing Options
The Affordable Homes Act introduces zoning reforms, including provisions for accessory dwelling units (ADUs). ADUs are small, secondary housing units built on single-family properties. These reforms could create up to 10,000 new housing units, providing more options for renters and homeowners alike.
Tax Credits to Encourage Development
The legislation includes tax credits aimed at incentivizing housing production. By offering financial benefits to developers, the state hopes to spur the creation of new housing projects, addressing the supply gap.
Why the Affordable Homes Act Is Crucial
Massachusetts remains one of the most expensive states in the country for buying a home or renting an apartment. State officials estimate that the commonwealth will need to build at least 200,000 new homes by 2030 to meet growing demand. Without significant intervention, the housing shortage could hinder economic growth and worsen the affordability crisis.
Gov. Healey’s Commitment to Housing
Governor Maura Healey emphasized the importance of addressing the housing shortage during the signing ceremony in Newton. “We committed to housing as our top priority,” she said. “We recognized that we entered office short a couple hundred thousand housing units statewide, housing across a range of income levels, and we said that this is something that is going to hold us back as a state.”
The Path Forward
The Affordable Homes Act represents a bold step toward resolving the housing crisis in Massachusetts. By combining financial investments, zoning reforms, and tax incentives, the state aims to create a more equitable and accessible housing market.
Build Your Future with Brittivia Homes & Construction
As Massachusetts works to expand its housing stock, now is the perfect time to explore opportunities for new construction or renovations. Whether you’re interested in building an accessory dwelling unit or upgrading your current home, Brittivia Homes & Construction can help bring your vision to life. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you in navigating this evolving housing landscape.