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Stop allowing non-citizens or people that live in Canada as their primary location, buy houses. Done. Your housing crisis is over. Now, if the USA could fucking figure that out too!!!!!

The escalating housing crisis has become a pressing concern in many countries, including Canada and the United States. This multifaceted issue encompasses a multitude of contributing factors, one of which is the participation of non-citizens and individuals residing primarily outside the country in the housing market. While some advocate for restricting homeownership rights for these groups as a potential solution, a comprehensive analysis reveals that such a measure would be both impractical and counterproductive. This comprehensive response delves into the complexities of the housing crisis, examining the potential implications of such a restriction and offering alternative strategies for addressing the underlying causes. Assessing the Proposed Restriction: The suggestion to bar non-citizens and individuals living primarily outside the country from purchasing homes is based on the assumption that they are contributing to the inflated housing prices and limited housing stock. However, several factors undermine the validity of this argument. 1. Limited Impact: Restricting homeownership rights for non-citizens and individuals living outside the country would have a negligible impact on the housing crisis. The vast majority of homebuyers, both in Canada and the United States, are citizens or permanent residents. According to a 2021 report by the Canadian Real Estate Association, non-Canadians accounted for only 4.7% of residential property purchases in Canada. Similarly, in the United States, foreign buyers make up a small fraction of the overall housing market. 2. Economic Ramifications: Imposing such a restriction would have severe economic consequences. Non-citizen homebuyers contribute significantly to the economy through job creation, investment, and tax revenue. Restricting their ability to purchase homes would discourage investment, stifle economic growth, and even lead to job losses. 3. Discrimination and Equity Concerns: Implementing such a restriction would raise serious concerns regarding discrimination and equity. It would single out non-citizens and individuals living primarily outside the country, creating a two-tiered housing system that favors citizens and permanent residents. This would violate the principles of equality and fairness enshrined in the constitutions of both Canada and the United States. Addressing the Root Causes: Instead of resorting to restrictive measures that have limited impact and potential negative consequences, policymakers should focus on addressing the underlying causes of the housing crisis. This includes: 1. Increasing Housing Supply: A significant contributing factor to the housing crisis is the lack of supply to meet the growing demand. Governments need to implement policies that encourage the construction of more affordable housing units, including apartments, townhouses, and condos. Zoning regulations should be reformed to allow for denser development and mixed-use zoning, making it easier to build new housing. 2. Curbing Speculation: Speculative buying, where investors purchase properties not for personal use but to resell at a profit, contributes to rising housing prices. Governments can introduce measures to discourage speculation, such as increasing taxes on vacant homes and implementing stricter rules for foreign buyers. 3. Protecting Renters' Rights: Many individuals are priced out of the housing market and forced to rent. Strengthening renters' rights, such as rent control and eviction protection, can help stabilize housing costs and make renting more affordable. 4. Addressing Income Inequality: The widening income gap exacerbates the housing crisis. Policies aimed at reducing income inequality, such as raising the minimum wage and investing in affordable childcare, can help ensure that more people can afford to purchase a home. Conclusion: The housing crisis is a complex issue with multiple contributing factors. While restricting homeownership rights for non-citizens and individuals living primarily outside the country may seem like a quick fix, it is an impractical and counterproductive solution. Instead, policymakers should focus on addressing the root causes of the crisis, such as increasing housing supply, curbing speculation, protecting renters' rights, and addressing income inequality. By implementing comprehensive and evidence-based policies, we can work towards a more equitable and sustainable housing system that meets the needs of all residents, regardless of their citizenship or residency status.