Real Estate Decoded (Substack)

Housing Problems Are Political, Not Economic

John Wake argues that the United States' housing crisis stems more from political choices than pure market forces. He points to restrictive zoning, rent‑control politics, and federal subsidies that favor homeownership over rental supply. The piece highlights how local and state policymakers shape supply constraints, often under voter pressure, while economic fundamentals like demand remain robust. Wake concludes that meaningful relief will require political will to overhaul land‑use rules and funding priorities.