Architectural Wealth Tax

A democratic socialist solution for the housing crisis, as well as public institutional disparity in American neighborhoods?

The top 1% wealthiest land owners, real estate development corporations and construction companies are taxed on their land and assets in order to reallocate resources to areas, organizations, and cities in need. Privately owned land slated for commercial development can be reallocated, and a percentage of income based on rent can be diverted to fund the development of housing for those who cannot afford it.

Money would be moved towards sustainably focused architectural development such as buildings that pass LEED Certification, are proven net-zero, or adhere to the requirements of the Living Building Challenge. Development would be strategically guided to take place in neighborhoods which would benefit from affordable housing, and increased population density, offering local economies a long term, sustainable stimulus.

These efforts would be coupled by the revision of stodgy zoning laws, reforming policies which stifle growth, especially tearing down the political structures which enable redlining.