RECkoning with Real Estate – Ep. 26: Part 2 of 2 The Systems Behind Our Cities

Today, we engage in Part 2 of a hefty conversation with Professor Edward G. Goetz of the University of Minnesota, examining patterns of residential segregation in Minnesota. Dive in to explore meaty concepts like the “segregation tax” versus the “segregation dividend.” Along the way, we unpack topics like mortgage interest deductions and income-to-housing cost ratios – not exactly page turners, but somehow Ed makes them intriguing (we promise).

We talk about the reasons that many feel behind in home ownership, like how purchasing a median-priced home in Minnesota often requires a six-figure income, well above the state’s median household income! While this is alarming for many reasons, there is legislation targeted at changing this. “Yes to Homes 2026” is a bipartisan proposal that requires no new state funding. It would implement structural changes to zoning laws across Minnesota, allowing more homes to be built where they are most needed. REC wholeheartedly supports this effort!

To learn even more, watch PART 1, and be sure to read Whiteness and Urban Planning, a paper co-authored by Edward G. Goetz, Rashad A. Williams & Anthony Damiano that calls for a shift in how we analyze urban space, power, and racialized advantage. Watch the previous episode here, and be sure to follow along for an insightful conversation. Find us at therecollab.com

Extras:

Edward G. Goetz

Whiteness and Urban Planning Paper: Read here

Racially Concentrated Areas of Affluence: A Preliminary Investigation

Read why REC supports “Yes to Homes 2026” here

Thank you to our Sponsors!
Taylor Hall @ Evergreen Collective

Matt Berna @ Bell Bank Mortgage

Ben Feldman @ Active Insurance Solutions