Property rights, not mandates, create affordable housing

President Donald Trump recently issued an executive order calling for action to address the “cost of living crisis,” highlighting high housing costs as a major challenge. This major affordability crisis continues to put the American dream of home ownership beyond reach for many across the country. Even with good-paying jobs, many people struggle to afford a home in the current housing market.

Throughout America’s history, policymakers have created program after program to help people struggling to find a place to live. This is a noble goal. After all, housing is a basic human need. But each time the government gets involved in housing markets, it does more harm than good.