[kenned3]

Well put.

Adding to this.

The government is always there, with its hands out looking to get a slice of the real-estate market.

- Property taxes

- Land transfer taxes

- Development fees

And once you buy your house, any attempt to improve it could trigger more government involvement. Building permits, inspection fees.

Your point is spot-on. I think a big part of it is "keeping up with the Joneses". Everyone wants that 3,000 square foot house, and naturally it has to be within walking distance from work.

Lastly - Location is a a major problem.

Here (Ontario) the common complaint is "i cant afford to live in Toronto" - Living in Toronto is NOT A RIGHT. No one owes you "affordable housing" in Toronto to avoid a commute. A Lot of people commute on the GO train daily..