Vancouver's housing market is in crisis. Homes are so expensive that average buyers can't afford even a starter condo, which costs around $600,000. The share of income needed for homeownership is over 63%, making it more expensive to own a home in Vancouver than anywhere in Canada. The situation is so bad that some parents are helping their children pay for down payments just to make the monthly payments more affordable.
FAFSA application rates have plummeted (15%) due to form issues, jeopardizing aid for two million students. Experts fear eligible individuals, particularly low-income Pell Grant recipients, may miss out. Despite simplification efforts, states explore mandating FAFSA for seniors, as it correlates with college enrollment. Families often misperceive ineligibility, deterring applications. The Education Department must address FAFSA problems and provide students with essential financial support for higher education.