Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the severe housing crisis in Hong Kong, particularly focusing on the issues surrounding "subdivided flats" (劏房), which are often of poor quality and unaffordable for low-income residents. It discusses the systemic problems contributing to this crisis, including market inefficiencies, policy delays, and the dual nature of housing as both an investment and a basic need [10][30][58]. Group 1: Current Housing Conditions - 93% of residents experienced hotter conditions this summer compared to previous years, with 35.7% trapped in poorly ventilated spaces and 4% living in windowless environments [3][4]. - The median monthly income for residents is only 11,500 HKD, with nearly half of this income going towards rent, leaving little for exorbitant utility costs [4][5]. - The high property prices in Hong Kong have forced many to live in substandard "subdivided flats" [5]. Group 2: Government Response - The Hong Kong government has been increasing the number of public housing units and has introduced transitional housing to assist those waiting for public housing [6]. - A new regulation passed on September 26 aims to strengthen the management of subdivided flats, seen as a significant step towards improving living conditions [7]. Group 3: Market Dynamics - The "lemon market" effect is prevalent in Hong Kong's rental market, where low-income families face information asymmetry, leading to a proliferation of substandard housing [11][16]. - The imbalance between housing as an investment and as a basic need has led to inflated property prices, making it difficult for average citizens to afford decent living conditions [20][22]. Group 4: Policy Challenges - The article discusses the delay in government intervention, with significant measures only being introduced in recent years despite the long-standing nature of the subdivided flat issue [26][28]. - The interplay of the "lemon market" effect, the dual nature of housing, and institutional delays creates a complex web that exacerbates the housing crisis [30][31]. Group 5: Proposed Solutions - To address the subdivided flat issue, the article suggests creating a transparent rental information platform, enforcing housing standards, and protecting tenant rights [34]. - The "simple housing" certification policy aims to set minimum living standards, but there are concerns about the potential for increased rental costs as landlords pass compliance costs onto tenants [44][46]. - The "community living room" initiative seeks to enhance living quality by providing shared spaces for essential activities, thereby improving community ties and social capital [49][56]. Group 6: Future Directions - The article emphasizes the need for a balanced rental market that caters to the "sandwich class"—those who earn too much for public housing but cannot afford private rentals [59]. - It calls for a transformation in land supply mechanisms to utilize underused land effectively, alongside a shift in societal attitudes towards housing as a financial asset rather than a basic human right [60][63].