Americans live in relatively huge houses, with tons of stuff that we don't need, use, or even get any sentimental value out of. I'm not saying we need to transf

Americans live in relatively huge houses, with tons of stuff that we don't need, use, or even get any sentimental value out of. I'm not saying we need to transform into Japan - it was truly nice to be able to visit wealthier family and their big houses with their "fk you" foyers and finished basements bigger than any apartment I've ever lived in - but the average American nuclear family does not need more then 2000 square feet (if that), day-to-day. Once you eliminate speculation on grandiose properties - which in turn drives up the prices of your given McMansion or SF bungalow - maybe you can figure out a way to provide everyone with decent, dignified housing that's appropriate for their family size and lifestyle. People like to say that the economy isn't zero sum, nosiree, but it's mighty suspicious how much homelessness rises in cities where apartments go for 7 figures cash, or $3k+ a month in rent.