The Rising Costs of Housing Are Affecting Our Neighborhood

Walking down my block last weekend, I noticed something that’s been weighing on me: more “For Sale” signs and growing worries about the cost of staying in our community. Rising mortgage payments, rent hikes, and growing property taxes are forcing many families — some who’ve been here for decades — to move away. This isn’t just a real estate story; it’s a story about the future of our neighborhood.  

Some of my friends have decided to sell their homes and move to less expensive areas, but many want to stay. This community isn’t just a group of houses; it’s a network of relationships — people who watch each other’s children, celebrate together, or bring soup when someone’s ill. Rising prices undermine these ties and slowly erase the character that made this place home.  

Local initiatives can make a big difference. Rent controls, community land trusts, and incentives for homeowners to keep their properties within reach for future generations — these are all realistic policy solutions. I’m encouraged by community meetings where people come together to collaborate instead of turning their backs on each other.