[schnevets]

We see rent as a massive expense for this innovation, but that isn't an inevitability. Consolidated landlords cannot recognize certain advantages that "Ma and Pa" owners will recognize like consistent (albeit lower) payments, tenants who are respectful of the building and grounds, or the fun of supporting a cool business.

Compare that to a place like Japan where the post-war distribution of land and smart zoning continues to cultivate a vibrant local economy, or venerable Italian cities where homes and businesses remain for centuries.

I don't condone decommodification of real estate or other acts of heavy-handed socialism, but there are laws that play against the "little guy" that must be repealed. Admittedly, every approach (including the Japan and Italy examples) has pros and cons, but many of us forget that there are alternatives out there.