The American dream of homeownership is increasingly elusive, as housing affordability plummets to its worst levels since the 2008 financial crisis. The home price-to-income ratio in the U.S. has reached a staggering 7.2, surpassing the 2008 crisis levels. Home prices have surged by 50% since 2019, far outpacing the 17% increase in incomes. This widening gap has placed immense pressure on prospective homebuyers, particularly low-income families who are disproportionately affected by rising rents. Despite proposed government initiatives, the affordability crisis persists, casting a shadow over the American dream of owning a home.