Category: Cost of Living and Affordability

Congress May Finally Recognize That Mobile Homes Aren’t Really That Mobile

The New York Times – Business:
An obscure federal rule requires manufactured homes to be built on a chassis, making them more costly. A bill in Congress would remove the mandate, enacted five decades ago.
Are Democrats Becoming a Party of Tax Cuts?

The New York Times – Business:
As Democrats try to find a way back to power in Washington, some see tax cuts as a quick and easy way to address affordability. The wonks are freaking out.
You Have Some Options for Dealing With Rising Property Taxes

The New York Times – Business:
The average bill rose 3 percent last year, in part because of higher tax rates. There are ways to try to reduce what you owe, experts say.
How New Yorkers Spend, Splurge and Scrimp to Live in the City

The New York Times – Business:
Eliza Shapiro, who reports on New York City’s affordability crisis, asked hundreds of residents to get candid about their finances.
Tesla Sales Rise as $4-a-Gallon Gas Revives Interest in E.V.s

The New York Times – Business:
The repeal of tax credits last year sent electric vehicle sales plummeting. But with gas prices soaring, consumers are taking another, cautious, look.
The U.S. Economy Is Insulated From High Oil Prices. Americans Aren’t.

The New York Times – Business:
The overall economy has proved resilient in recent years, even as many households have struggled. The war with Iran is following the same pattern.
U.S. Mortgage Rates Rise, Undercutting Housing Affordability Push

The New York Times – Business:
Mortgage rates fell below the critical 6 percent threshold just a couple weeks ago. But they’re climbing again as new inflation concerns have roiled financial markets.
How to Afford Housing in London: Multiple Roommates, No Living Room

The New York Times – Business:
High prices have pushed more Londoners to live with roommates well into their late 20s and 30s — if they can afford to move out of their parents’ homes at all.
Trump Directs Iran War Keeping Markets Top of Mind

The New York Times – Business:
President Trump again demonstrated his desire to keep the stock markets aloft when he suggested U.S. attacks on Iran could end soon.
U.S. Mortgage Rates Fall Below 6% for First Time in Years

The New York Times – Business:
The evidence is patchy on whether lower rates have meaningfully spurred more activity, as the Trump administration floats measures it says will make housing more affordable.
New A.C.A. Plans Could Increase Family Deductibles to $31,000

The New York Times – Business:
The Trump administration is proposing Obamacare plans that it says will lower health insurance premiums. But critics warn they would make care unaffordable.
Home Depot Says Homeowners Are Weary From Economic Pressures

The New York Times – Business:
Sales fell at the home-improvement retailer, as homeowners shied away from big-ticket home improvement projects amid worries about housing costs and the job market.