Thread by @_neutronfish

Whenever you complain about the soaring cost of housing, you'll always find someone who'll say "but homes are bigger than ever, so buy a smaller one" as a counter. Just one problem. Developers are either building big or nothing. Smaller homes aren't there. curbed.com/2020/3/10/2116…

You want a smaller house? Well, this one is a rental, this one is about 80 years old and needs a lot of renovations and maintenance, and that one is for sale but landlords are in a bidding war to add it to their investment property portfolio. Starter homes are being wiped out.

Want to be smart and buy a condo? Cool. Here's a run down half century old one smaller than your apartment and in need of serious updates, and here's a 2,300 sq. ft. ultralux new "residence" in a full service high rise with five pools, spa, gym, and a $1,000 a month condo fee.

And that's really the problem. Builders in denial, outdated zoning laws, angry homeowners who protest new higher density and mixed use development, wealth inequality, inflation, and income stagnation have all created a housing market where you go big or go... well, somewhere.

Two years ago I did find a smaller home that fits all my needs, but that was only thanks to a tip by a realtor friend, swooping in on a deal that fell through. And while things worked out for me, I know I was lucky, and I'm concerned about what will happen to those who aren't.