Index IntroductionThe factors of the housing crisisThe housing market and its implicationsThe role of Airbnb in the crisisHomelessness vs. vacant homesA solution: eliminate ownership and restructure the systemConclusionWorks CitedIntroductionThis essay delves into the complex issue of the modern housing crisis, an urgent concern in contemporary American society. The term “housing crisis” encompasses the growing problems of exorbitant rents, unaffordable housing, homelessness, and gentrification, which collectively undermine the basic human right to safe and adequate housing. By examining the interaction between the real estate market, economic factors and social dynamics, this essay seeks to shed light on the underlying causes of the crisis and explore potential solutions. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Factors of the Real Estate Crisis The Real Estate Market and Its Implications To understand the intricacies of the real estate crisis, it is imperative to gain in-depth knowledge of the real estate market, which serves as an arena for buying and selling homes. The real estate market plays a vital role in distributing properties to those who can afford them, thus influencing the affordability of housing for various segments of the population. However, the influence of the real estate market extends beyond simple distribution; it also promotes real estate development, often leading to gentrification. This process results in the influx of wealthier buyers into previously affordable neighborhoods, ultimately driving up rental prices. As a result, low-income families and individuals are displaced, contributing to declining homeownership and a growing homeless population. In summary, the mechanisms of the real estate market result in high rental costs and unaffordable housing, leaving those who are unable to meet these costs without adequate housing. This intricate relationship between the real estate market and the housing crisis highlights the urgent need for global solutions. Blaming specific demographic groups, such as millennials, for the housing crisis oversimplifies a deeply complex issue. It is crucial to recognize that the crisis is not the result of individual choices but rather a systemic problem rooted in the real estate market itself. The housing crisis emerges as a natural consequence of the existing system that forces individuals into unsustainable positions. In essence, it's not that people are choosing not to buy homes; is that they face insurmountable obstacles that make homeownership an unattainable dream. The housing crisis is a reflection of a system that perpetuates economic disparities and hinders housing affordability. Furthermore, Fredrick Engels' historical documentation reveals the dire consequences of lax regulation on the real estate market. During periods of relaxed oversight, homes were built unsafely, exacerbating the housing crisis and broader economic hardship. The flawed system set up by the real estate market has played a significant role in the increase in homelessness. The real estate market favors exorbitant prices, leaving only a privileged few with the luxury of owning a home, an essential need that should not be treated as a luxury. This systemic problem is a key factor contributing to the growing number of homeless individuals and families. Airbnb's role in the crisisAirbnb, initially perceived as a potential solution to the real estate crisis, has undergone a transformationfrom an amateur operation to a professional enterprise. Instead of being a platform for short-term rentals to tourists, Airbnb has become synonymous with landlords evicting long-term tenants to capitalize on the lucrative tourism market. This change creates a rent gap, where landlords seek to maximize profits through redevelopment, driving up rent prices and leaving tenants struggling to meet the new rates. Airbnb exacerbates the crisis by contributing to the rent gap and encouraging gentrification. Unlike traditional gentrification, Airbnb requires minimal effort from owners to raise profits, making it especially harmful to those who can't afford housing. Homelessness and Vacant Homes Despite the existence of approximately 3.5 million homeless people in the United States, there are a staggering 18.5 million vacant homes. This glaring discrepancy highlights the mistreatment of housing as a commodity rather than a basic human right. The housing crisis persists because homes are treated as marketable goods rather than necessities. The crisis transcends economic concerns and delves into questions of human rights and morality. It is up to society to address this disparity by redistributing vacant homes to those in need, challenging the commodification of housing, and recognizing housing as a basic human right. One solution: eliminate ownership and restructure the system A radical but transformative proposal to address the housing problem The crisis involves the elimination of the concept of ownership in the real estate market. This approach would free individuals from the burden of mortgages and rents, allowing for greater mobility and flexibility in housing choices. The potential benefits of such a transformation are many. Abolishing the existing structure of the real estate market would lead to fewer vacant homes, a decrease in homelessness, and a reversal of the process of gentrification in previously unaffordable neighborhoods. This proposal challenges the concept of ownership and promotes a society where housing is accessible to all. Conclusion In conclusion, the modern housing crisis is a complex and urgent issue that requires a comprehensive examination of the housing market, its systemic flaws and potential solutions. Blaming specific demographics is an oversimplification of a deeply rooted problem. The root causes of the crisis lie in the flawed housing market system, which perpetuates economic disparities and contributes to homelessness. Airbnb further exacerbates the crisis by widening rent gaps and encouraging gentrification. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Addressing the crisis requires a shift in social perspective, recognizing housing as a fundamental human right rather than a marketable commodity. Radical proposals, such as eliminating ownership in the housing market, challenge the status quo and offer a path to a more equitable and affordable housing system. Ultimately, it is imperative to consider the moral and human rights implications of the housing crisis, pushing us to rethink and reform the existing system for the benefit of all. Works cited by Amnesty International. (2019). USA: 3.5 million homeless and 18.5 million vacant homes - no excuse for vacant homes when so many people are homeless. https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2019/06/usa-35-million-homeless-and-185-million-vacant-homes-no-excuse-for-vacant-homes-when- many-people-are-homeless/Engels, F. (2008). The housing question. Pluto Press.Hoffman,.