The Missing Middle Podcast These Changes Can Help Make Homes Affordable for Young People
Jan 28, 2026
They unpack why homeownership for under-40s has collapsed and how federal policy plays a bigger role than people think. They explain why family-sized homes have declined while “dog-crate” condos proliferate. They explore how immigration, taxes, development charges, and investors push prices up. They outline federal levers to encourage downsizing seniors, curb investor demand, and steer supports toward new supply.
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Federal Role In Housing Is Real
- The federal government both created and can help solve Canada’s housing problems through immigration, tax, and monetary levers.
- Mike Moffatt and Sabrina Maddeaux argue Ottawa has clear demand-side tools that shape housing affordability.
Homeownership Has Cratered For Under‑40s
- Homeownership rates for Canadians under 40 have fallen sharply and the decline grows with younger cohorts.
- The report isolates four drivers: population growth outpacing builds, fewer family-sized homes, fewer ownership starts, and investor purchases.
Fewer Family Homes Per Population Growth
- Freehold ownership home construction dropped ~20–25% over 25 years while population growth accelerated.
- The ratio fell from ~30–35 homes per 100-person increase to about 12, creating fierce competition for family homes.