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In the very long term, yes a large plot of land in a densely-constructed city would be extremely valuable. In the short and medium-term though, the downward price pressure of increased supply outweighs the upward price pressure of amenity effects.[1][2][3]

Very few NIMBYs will openly admit to wanting to maintain their property values because it's a much less noble sounding cause than "preserving the character of the neighborhood" or whatever.

1. https://research.upjohn.org/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1334...

2. https://blocksandlots.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Do-New-...

3. https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=3867764



I looked at the cited papers and accept the presented economic dynamics. But I still do not accept that it is a predominant motivation for why people are nimby.

When I talk to my neighbors, I just do not get a sense of “oh yeah this dude is actually trying to maximize land value”. I see people just trying to have a decent life and raise a family.

All these comments that allude to “quiet part out loud” or whatever seriously sound like conspiracy theories to me. Call me naive, but the folks in my neighborhood are not a cabal of real estate moguls. Though, yes, some are nimby


People have a really hard time admitting there are negative externalities to density.

Some may be small, all may be worth it, but they do exist.

And straight up cash can make many go away either in the form of reduced taxes, improved services, a new park, etc.




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