Caroline Downey

When skyrocketing interest rates, institutional investor buyouts, and systemic housing supply shortages converge, the American Dream of homeownership is rapidly slipping out of reach for an entire generation. Caroline Downey breaks down how the national housing crisis is pricing young Americans out of the property market, forcing Gen Z into what economists increasingly call a lifetime "renter class." Unpacking the structural policy failures, inflationary pressures, and regulatory hurdles stifling new residential construction, Caroline analyzes the long-term social consequences—from delayed family formation and lost wealth accumulation to growing generational resentment. What does the death of affordable starter homes mean for the financial security of young Americans and the future of the middle class? Watch Caroline’s full analysis, leave your thoughts below, and subscribe to National Review!