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Thing is, we are talking about housing here. A basic necessity for everyone. I can live without a car, I can live without that expensive new_shiny_toy_of_the_month but housing is something that's vital, it has the ability to impact so many aspects of my life.

So the whole debate here, as far as I understand is, how ethical is all this. Is it ethical to squeeze every last cent out of a person looking to house themselves and their family?

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What’s unethical is not building enough housing to affordable house everyone.

I’d claim it’s more complicated as large groups could purchase said housing, and by intentionally introducing a certain amount of vacancy create enough of a shortage such that the rest of the portfolio becomes more expensive and “profitable”

Isn't it the case that houses in undesirable areas are much cheaper?

The literal roof over the head is generally affordable - but having it in the location and standard people want is where it gets expensive.

However the desirable area and standard of housing is a want not a necessity. I want it too btw, same as everyone else!

The other thing I wonder, is if everyone is 'entitled' to a nice area and house, who pays for it all, and how do we fit everyone into the nicer areas?

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