What is a dream you've given up on?

I gave up on home ownership. I had some money I've been saving since 2015 to put toward a down payment and finally just started spending it. I bought a new couch, which I've needed for at least the last 5 years. I spent some money to go overseas to a wellness retreat to try and lose some weight. I spent money to try to preserve my fertility. I spent money on matchmaking services. I'm thinking of buying a newish car too, since I think it will help my driving anxiety. I feel really sad about the homeownership thing, but I've been on the market in this city for four years and can't find anything I can afford. where the prices are right now, I would need to earn $20K more a year to afford something. And by the time I make it to that income, the homes will be out of my reach again. Basically, I've been trying to afford a home for the last 10 years and that's what keeps happening. I just gave up. I don't feel like a weight is lifted though, because I know eventually, I'll have to move into a bigger place and I won't be able to afford the rent. This economy was really set up for dual income but I only have one and I haven't been successful with relationships either. In general, aside from robbing a bank, I had to give up for my sanity.

Souls

There are plenty of programs for new homeowners such as CGP&H services, etc. To qualify you would need proof of income for a year and a half, a minimum credit score of 560, debit to income ratio has to be a certain percent, but no down payment required. Depending on what you are looking for lowest mortgage I have seen is $550 a month for a two-bedroom house with all appliances, etc. I hope this helps and you continue to fulfill your dreams anything is possible!

blindbob · 41-45

@Souls I have pretty much exhausted every new homeowner program in my area. The problem is I make too much income for many of the programs, while at the same time, I don't make enough to afford any homes at the current market rate. I would need a raise of $20K to $30K annually to afford a home. By the time I make it to that salary, the prices will be out of reach again. I've basically been chasing that $30K deficit for the last 10 years.

GeniUs · 56-60, M

This is true for so many people today and the governments (whichever one serves you) come up with more and more outlandish ways of deflecting when asked why ordinary people can't afford homes. A while back in the UK it was suggested that you should, 'wait until your parents die then you can inherit at least enough to give you a deposit for a house'.