People wishing to live in rural areas, away from small cities and towns, have limited housing choices due to the difficulties in providing affordable housing units in low density areas. Environmental Constraints Add to Housing Costs . There is a shortage of land available and suitable for development. Steep slopes add to development costs, including the costs for wells and septic systems. Alternative wastewater treatment systems are costly and limited in their application.
Flat land is often in or near the flood plain, which increases insurance costs.
Absence of Public Water and Sewer Service Limits Development Options . Public water and sewer service does not extend into developable land and the cost of installation is high. There is an overall shortage of developable lots available and high utility and construction costs limit affordability. The annexation moratorium inhibits the development of new housing opportunities. Government Policies Add to Housing Costs and Restrict New Development .