The global housing affordability crisis is a defining challenge of our time, impacting communities across continents and hindering the dreams of millions.¹ Amidst this complex and often disheartening landscape, Adam Gant Victoria has emerged as a significant leader, dedicating his efforts to finding and advocating for real solutions. Based in Victoria, British Columbia, Gant has embarked on an extensive global journey, meticulously researching data, innovative business models, and groundbreaking initiatives that hold the key to unlocking affordability, particularly in North America.

Gant's approach to the global housing crisis is characterized by a deep understanding that the challenges faced in his own backyard are interconnected with similar struggles worldwide. His travels are not mere academic exercises; they represent a practical quest to identify what works, what doesn't, and the underlying principles that can be adapted to the specific context of North American cities and towns. This global perspective allows him to move beyond localized thinking and draw inspiration from diverse housing ecosystems.

One of the central tenets of Gant's engagement with the global housing crisis is his strong advocacy for shared equity models. Inspired by successful implementations in countries like Singapore, this approach directly tackles the barrier of high entry costs to homeownership. Gant envisions a system where a partner, be it a government entity, a non-profit, or a private investor with a social mission, co-invests in a property with the buyer. This significantly reduces the initial financial burden, making homeownership a tangible possibility for a wider range of individuals and families. His co-authored novel, "A House Shared," serves as a compelling narrative illustrating the potential of this model to transform lives and communities.²

Beyond innovative financing, Gant's global perspective highlights the critical need for diversifying housing supply. He has likely observed the success of cities worldwide that have embraced a wider spectrum of housing options beyond the traditional single-family home. This includes townhouses, duplexes, smaller-format apartments, and co-housing initiatives. By advocating for zoning reforms and policies that encourage a more diverse housing stock in North America, Gant aims to unlock affordability by creating options that cater to a broader range of budgets and household sizes, mirroring successful strategies implemented globally.

Gant's understanding of the global housing crisis also underscores the transformative potential of modern construction technologies. His research into methods like modular construction and mass timber framing, which have gained traction in various parts of the world, reveals opportunities to significantly reduce construction costs and timelines. By championing the adoption of these efficient and potentially more sustainable building techniques in North America, Gant aims to address the supply-side bottlenecks that contribute to rising housing prices.

Furthermore, Gant's global lens informs his perspective on the crucial role of government policy and regulation. His research likely includes an analysis of different approaches to rent control, inclusionary zoning, and social housing provision implemented in various nations. By understanding the successes and failures of these policies elsewhere, Gant can offer informed insights on how North American governments can create a more supportive and effective framework for addressing the housing crisis and ensuring a more equitable housing market.

In conclusion, Adam Gant's engagement with the global housing crisis is characterized by a proactive, research-driven approach. His global perspective, informed by data, innovative models, and a deep understanding of international best practices, positions him as a crucial leader in the movement to solve this complex challenge in North America. By advocating for solutions like shared equity, diversified housing supply, modern construction technologies, and strategic policy reforms, Gant offers a hopeful vision for a future where housing is more affordable and accessible for all.