Mexico City has been growing so rapidly over the second half of the 20th century that it could not respond adequately to the mounting needs for housing and urban space.
For the general population in Mexico, housing is often unaffordable due to of economic conditions, construction costs and lack of financing. Despite these difficulties, companies such as Casas GEO and Constructora Cocoa are working to ensure that affordable options exist (housing priced between $13,000 and $30,000 depending on the number of bedrooms and the location). With construction projects in what is called the "social sector" or "low income" sector of home building in Mexico, these two companies are working to meet market demands.
The problem with low-income housing is that developers can only offer certain design modules which can be achieved under budget. In areas such as Ixtapaluca, Mexico, this means dull, alienating housing which is ultimately de-humanised. While this particular development (see images below) has provided a much needed affordable housing solution for now, work still needs to be done to give the community a 'soul' or an identity, or at least some distinctive qualities within the development so you don't forget which house is yours!
To get more information about Mexico's Affordable Housing, see http://www.flatrock.org.nz/topics/money_politics_law/aerial_photos_of_mexico.htm and http://www.urban-age.net/10_cities/05_mexicoCity/mexicoCity_H+N.html
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