As housing prices increase on the post-recession wave, many experts are asking people to reconsider the dream of buying and owning a home, especially if that means sinking too deeply in debt or sacrificing mobility.
Alison Smith writes a cost-benefits analysis of home ownership in the current Canadian experience, where “[in] little more than a decade, the average house price in Canada has more than doubled, outpacing inflation and incomes.” The question is whether houses are still the dream investment they used to be, especially since so many people are so deeply invested in the idea: “Some Canadians are spending as much as 50 per cent of their income on mortgage payments.”
Smith cites David Chilton author of the Wealthy Barber, who asks consumers to think more modestly: “My argument has always been a more modest home is a better way to live…You're not stressed about your financial future. You have enough money flowing through to save."
FULL STORY: Rethinking the home ownership dream

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Canada vs. Kamala: Whose Liberal Housing Platform Comes Out on Top?
As Canada votes for a new Prime Minister, what can America learn from the leading liberal candidate of its neighbor to the north?

Washington State’s Parking Reform Law Could Unlock ‘Countless’ Acres for New Housing
A law that limits how much parking cities can require for residential amd commercial developments could lead to a construction boom.

Wildlife Rebounds After the Eaton Fire
Following the devastation of the Eaton Fire, the return of wildlife and the regrowth of native plants are offering powerful signs of resilience and renewal.

LA to Replace Inglewood Light Rail Project With Bus Shuttles
LA Metro says the change is in response to community engagement and that the new design will be ready before the 2028 Olympic Games.
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