Texas Senate approves smaller homes on smaller lots

The Texas Senate has moved forward with a bill aimed at lowering housing costs. On Wednesday, Senate Bill 15 passed with a 28-3 vote. The bill proposes allowing smaller homes to be built on smaller lots in new subdivisions. This is intended to help reduce the price of new homes in Texas. The average age of first-time homebuyers in Texas is now 54 years, according to state Sen. Paul Bettencourt, who authored the bill. He argues that the current situation is not sustainable for attracting younger buyers. Texas is facing a significant housing shortage, with an estimated 320,000 more homes needed to meet demand. Senate Bill 15 would limit lot size requirements for new homes to a maximum of 1,400 square feet, compared to the typical 5,000 to 7,500 square feet. This change aims to provide builders with more flexibility and lower overall costs for new homes. The bill only applies to new developments, not existing neighborhoods. However, some city officials and activists oppose the bill, viewing it as an infringement on local control over zoning and land use. Critics worry that state intervention could interfere with how cities manage growth. Despite concerns, there is some bipartisan support for the bill among Texas lawmakers. The bill now heads to the Texas House of Representatives. Similar housing measures previously failed in this chamber, but lawmakers are increasingly interested in making it easier to build homes and streamline the permitting process.