A new survey reveals overwhelming support for rent control across the political spectrum, but experts caution that these measures could inadvertently worsen housing affordability by discouraging new construction and potentially driving up rents before implementation.
The real estate market in 2025 faces a complex landscape, with political instability, escalating insurance costs, and the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) posing significant challenges. While recent interest rate cuts offer some optimism, the upcoming global elections and a housing affordability crisis continue to weigh on the industry. This article explores the key trends and forecasts impacting the real estate market in 2025, highlighting both opportunities and concerns.
New data from Redfin reveals a stark difference in how renters and homeowners view housing affordability, with renters significantly more likely to prioritize the issue when choosing a presidential candidate. The survey highlights the economic disparity between these groups, with renters facing a greater financial strain. The article analyzes the political implications of these differing perspectives, examining candidate positions and expert opinions on potential solutions to the housing crisis.
A new survey reveals strong bipartisan support in key swing states for federal government action to make housing more affordable, including increased funding for affordable housing construction, down payment assistance, and measures to curb corporate ownership of homes. The survey, conducted by the Program for Public Consultation (PPC) at the University of Maryland, highlights a growing consensus on the need for government intervention in addressing the housing affordability crisis.
Thousands of residents in Spain’s Canary Islands took to the streets on Sunday to protest against the impact of over-tourism, which they claim is making housing unaffordable for locals. Demonstrations were held across the islands, calling for reforms to tourism practices and stricter regulations on short-term rentals. The protests highlight a growing concern in Spain about the impact of tourism on local communities and housing markets.
Suzanne Hayes faced a daunting housing situation when she received a 30-day notice to vacate her rental. With limited options due to rising costs and stringent rental market requirements, she found an unexpected solution – living in a hotel. Hayes’ experience highlights the growing housing affordability crisis in the US, where millions are unable to afford homeownership. While the Federal Reserve’s recent interest rate cut may offer some relief, experts emphasize the need for more significant action to tackle the chronic housing shortage.
Shark Tank investor Kevin O’Leary has expressed strong reservations about Vice President Kamala Harris’ economic proposals, particularly her support for a higher corporate tax rate, a $25,000 first-time homebuyer credit, and price controls. O’Leary argues these policies could have unintended consequences like driving businesses offshore, exacerbating inflation, and hindering economic growth.
The 2024 US presidential election is heavily influenced by the ongoing housing crisis. Both major parties are presenting solutions to appease worried voters, with Vice President Kamala Harris focusing on increased housing supply and affordability measures, while former President Donald Trump emphasizes immigration policies and energy production to address the issue. The complexity of the crisis, its impact on inflation, and the need for long-term solutions require voters to carefully consider the proposed plans.
The affordability of housing in California has reached its lowest point in nearly 17 years due to a combination of rising home prices and elevated mortgage rates. Only 14% of California households could afford to purchase a median-priced home in the second quarter of 2024, according to the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (C.A.R.). This marks a significant decline from the first quarter of 2024 and the second quarter of 2023, and represents less than a third of the affordability peak in 2012.
The Calgary Chamber of Commerce has released a report expressing concerns over the city’s housing affordability crisis and calling for all levels of government to work together to address the issue. The report found that demand for housing is soaring, outpacing the supply, which is leading to a dramatic increase in real estate costs. The chamber emphasized that affordability has been a crucial competitive advantage for Calgary businesses, and the current crisis is making it increasingly difficult for businesses to attract and retain employees. The chamber is urging the government to prioritize the construction of affordable housing, increase the workforce in the construction industry, and reduce regulatory barriers. The report also highlights the importance of collaboration between all levels of government to effectively tackle the housing affordability crisis.
