Background on AMPI and its Relevance
The Asociación Mexicana de Profesionales Inmobiliarios (AMPI) is a prominent organization representing real estate professionals in Mexico. With Karim Oviedo as its president, AMPI plays a crucial role in shaping housing policies and addressing the challenges faced by both homeowners and renters.
AMPI’s Concerns Regarding Bando 1
Bando 1 is a set of regulations issued by the Mexico City government to control rent increases. AMPI’s president, Karim Oviedo, has called for modifications to this strategy, emphasizing the need for incentives in housing construction, subsidies for affordable housing, and legal security for both homeowners and renters.
Oviedo’s Warning on Rent Control
Oviedo warned that without prioritizing the construction of affordable housing and streamlining building permit processes, controlling rents artificially would only exacerbate the housing crisis in certain neighborhoods facing rental pressure.
AMPI’s Proposed Solutions
AMPI has put forth several proposals to tackle the housing shortage, including:
- Creating a land bank with dynamic subsidies
- Implementing an accelerated offer law
- Establishing a guarantees trust to protect rental agreements
- Creating a rent observation system
AMPI’s Stance on Recent Protests
Oviedo acknowledged the right to protest but expressed concern over violent demonstrations that negatively impacted real estate investments. He emphasized AMPI’s support for continued housing investment, regardless of its source.
Housing Deficit and AMPI’s Recommendations
According to AMPI estimates, Mexico City faces a housing deficit of 3 million units. Oviedo proposed constructing 350,000 homes annually for the next five years to address this shortage. He also highlighted underdeveloped areas with potential, such as the northern, western parts of Xochimilco and Iztapalapa.
Learning from International Models
Oviedo suggested adopting a model similar to the United States, where the government subsidizes rent. This approach maintains price control without discouraging investments.
AMPI’s Engagement with the Mexico City Government
The AMPI section in Mexico City has been invited to participate in dialogues on gentrification led by the capital’s government. Oviedo confirmed that they will actively contribute their national-level insights to these discussions.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is AMPI’s primary concern regarding Bando 1? AMPI believes that without prioritizing affordable housing construction and simplifying building permit processes, artificially controlling rents will only worsen the housing crisis.
- What solutions has AMPI proposed to address the housing shortage? AMPI suggests creating a land bank with dynamic subsidies, implementing an accelerated offer law, establishing a guarantees trust to protect rental agreements, and creating a rent observation system.
- How does AMPI view recent protests against gentrification? While acknowledging the right to protest, AMPI expresses concern over violent demonstrations that negatively impact real estate investments. They support continued housing investment, regardless of its source.
- What is the estimated housing deficit in Mexico City, and how does AMPI propose to address it? The housing deficit in Mexico City is estimated at 3 million units. AMPI proposes constructing 350,000 homes annually for the next five years and developing underdeveloped areas with potential.
- What international housing model does AMPI recommend for Mexico City? AMPI suggests adopting a model similar to the United States, where the government subsidizes rent. This approach maintains price control without discouraging investments.