Some economic and political characteristics of the low-income housing market in Bogota, Colombia and their implications for public policy alternatives

First, the impact of population growth and transfer on the housing market of Bogota is discussed. Then some of the important, economic characteristics of Colombia in general, and Bogota in particular, and their influences on housing are discussed. Finally, such important outputs from the national and local political systems as zoning laws, national development plans and urban development legislation are presented (again, in the context of low-income housing in Bogota). These important factors affecting the housing market of the city having been discussed, the characteristics of this market are then examined in reference to the supply and demand for housing and housing-related services in Bogota. Focusing on the elasticity of demand for "basic" and "nonbasic" housing, such patterns of housing settlement as high density "inquilinatos," "pirate" barrios, and squatter settlements are explained.