'The first step in solving a problem is understanding it fully. Although this may sound obvious, many decisions are made and public policies enacted without a solid understanding of the problem at hand. Room for Development provides a thorough analysis of the most important issues dealing with housing for the poor and, in particular, the functioning of housing markets. The meticulous description of the myriad initiatives and programs carried out for decades in Latin America and the Caribbean provides a rich, rigorous, and indispensable tool for anyone working on this subject. Don't miss it!' - Sergio Fajardo Valderrama, governor of Antioquia, Colombia and former mayor of Medellin, Colombia

'For years to come, housing researchers and policymakers working in the Americas will begin with this volume. It is an invaluable source of data, policies, and research ideas on, inter alia, housing market behavior, subsidy systems, financing options, and regulatory regimes. Whether you require an introduction to the subject, or are well schooled in housing and the development of cities, you'll learn from this book.' - Stephen Malpezzi, Lorin and Marjorie Tiefenthaler Professor, Graaskamp Center for Real Estate, Wisconsin School of Business