Housing

Retirees and those aspiring to join the middle class are struggling to make ends meet as the value of the ruble has fallen along with world oil prices. But Putin's government is doing little to help.

Tenants often stop paying rent to force the repair of poor conditions in the only housing they can afford. But landlords say can't fix the problems until they get the rent. It's a vicious cycle.

The kids of the housing crisis — those 35 and under — are among the most eager to buy today. Here are some tips, for everyone, on how to weigh whether renting or buying makes the most sense for you.

China's economy is struggling. The currency and stock market are down. Growth continues to slow. Yet in Shanghai, people are scrambling to buy apartments even as prices soar. Why?

Many construction companies are still recovering from the housing crash, and while buyers don't seem pressured by a looming Federal Reserve decision, higher rates would make mortgages less affordable.

Some local laws make it illegal to sleep or eat outside. Advocates have fought these laws in court. Now, the federal government is taking a stance, pushing ways to help, not criminalize, the homeless.