Making the Argument with Nick Freitas Can We Expect Gov't to Make Housing Affordable Again
Jan 14, 2026
The discussion dives into the complexities of the housing market and the impact of recent government interventions. It highlights how zoning laws and bureaucratic regulations impede housing supply and affordability. The pros and cons of Trump’s economic policies are analyzed, alongside the pitfalls of rent control and subsidized housing. Solutions focus on increasing market responsiveness, reducing restrictions, and embracing free-market principles to address the housing crisis. Local policies emerge as key factors that shape affordability.
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Let Markets Build More Housing
- Reduce bureaucratic restrictions and allow diverse housing types to be built.
- Freitas recommends enabling more building to let market processes lower prices over time.
Price Caps Discourage Building
- Rent control and inclusionary zoning can discourage new construction and worsen shortages.
- Freitas explains price caps and mandates reduce developer incentives to build.
Luxury Construction Eases Supply Constraints
- Building luxury units still increases overall housing supply and lowers prices over time.
- Freitas notes a ripple effect where new high-end units eventually free up lower-cost options.