Make Me Smart
The million-dollar starter home?
May 7, 2025
Reema Khrais, host of Marketplace's This Is Uncomfortable, joins to dive into the stark realities of the housing market. They discuss the alarming proposed cuts to rental assistance that could impact millions, alongside the staggering prices of starter homes now exceeding $1 million. The conversation takes an unexpected turn with heartwarming tales of parrots video calling each other and innovative solutions to combat microplastics in water. It's a blend of economic insights and joyful science that keeps listeners engaged.
18:24
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Quick takeaways
- Proposed cuts to housing assistance programs could have a devastating impact on millions, worsening the affordability crisis for low-income families.
- The skyrocketing prices of starter homes, now over a million dollars in many cities, are forcing first-time buyers to delay homeownership significantly.
Deep dives
Proposed Cuts to Housing Assistance
A significant proposed cut to federal housing assistance has been introduced, with the Trump administration suggesting a reduction of over $26 million in programs like Section 8. This proposed decrease represents a 40% cut and shifts more control to the states, which would now bear greater responsibility with less funding available. The potential impact could be profound, affecting more than three and a half million individuals, while contributing to the ongoing housing affordability crisis. Although Congress holds the power to prevent these cuts from occurring, the proposal highlights the administration's priorities regarding housing support and raises concerns within the housing industry.
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