Housing

Few topics bring us together like anger over the inaccessibility of affordable housing. As a former mortgage banker, I had a first-hand view of the changes that brought us to where we are today. While there are no immediate fixes, there are things that we can do to make the process of keeping a roof over your head easier.

First, I want to design a pre-tax system, similar to HSA accounts where you can save up to 5 years worth of payments for your rent or primary residence. In addition to making your monthly payment, you can use this money for a down payment on a new primary residence, or pay off the principle on your mortgage faster. The goal is to encourage people to invest in themselves first.

Second, I want to relax guidelines regarding the types of homes that can be built and financed. Too often building guideline conversations focus on old arguments. However, the past couple decades have seen a remarkable number of new designs that are affordable, durable and practical. These homes can be built for much less than conventional homes. The common refrain is that they might lower housing values, which is simply a matter of changing how appraisals are conducted and how zoning laws are applied. Nothing that cannot be resolved by a motivated Congress in partnership with various industry persons.