Canada announces a new federal agency to build affordable housing. Well, here’s the scoop. It seems like the government is trying to tackle the housing crisis, which, let’s be honest, is a pretty pressing issue. But the question is, how? Unfortunately, from the sound of it, this new agency is leaning heavily on private enterprise to get the job done. And that, my friends, is where things get a little tricky. We’ve seen this song and dance before, with the feds and Ontario giving it a go for years, and the results haven’t exactly been stellar.
You see, when you hand over the reins to private companies, especially when it comes to handling public funds, the incentives can get a bit… skewed.… Continue reading
To address Spain’s housing crisis, the government proposes a new tax of up to 100% on properties purchased by non-EU residents, aiming to prioritize housing for Spanish citizens. This unprecedented measure, modeled after similar policies in Denmark and Canada, targets the significant number of properties acquired by non-EU buyers for investment purposes. The plan, part of a broader housing affordability initiative, also includes tax breaks for affordable housing providers, public housing expansion, and stricter regulations on short-term rentals. Further details regarding implementation and parliamentary approval remain pending.
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A dramatic 18.1% surge in U.S. homelessness in 2024, totaling over 770,000 individuals, is primarily attributed to escalating housing costs, natural disasters, and increased migrant populations. This follows a 12% increase in 2023, and disproportionately affects Black individuals and families, with family homelessness rising nearly 40% nationwide. While veteran homelessness decreased, the overall increase highlights the urgent need for increased investment in affordable housing and evidence-based solutions to prevent and end homelessness.
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Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has launched a comprehensive housing initiative aimed at tackling the country’s housing deficit. The program, built on a partnership between the federal government and housing institutions, will construct a million homes, including 500,000 built specifically for those ineligible for traditional public housing. A key feature is a zero-interest mortgage scheme, offering low-income families a path to homeownership with favorable terms, reflecting a commitment to equitable development and contrasting with previous right-wing administrations that focused on profit-driven projects. The initiative also prioritizes building accessible, functional housing near workplaces and public services, representing a significant departure from past projects that often placed homes in remote areas.
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Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker